Thoughts about expressing sympathy

I'm not an expert in this, but in thinking about the passing of Robert Miller - I put together these thoughts* about what might be appropriate to say and/or put in a card when expressing sympathy to a family member or a friend. Your comments should express sorrow at the pain the person is experiencing and not make a judgment or an assumption.

Thoughts you could say or write:

• "I'm sorry."
• "I'm sorry for your loss."
  
• "Please let me know if there anything I can do."
• "You are in my thoughts and prayers."
• "I'm so sorry (he/she) is no longer here with us."
• "(He/She) was a wonderful person."
  
• "I remember ... " Share something positive about the person (keep it brief)
  

Things you probably shouldn't say or write

• "At least, (He/She) is not suffering any more."
• "I understand your grief and/or loss."
• "God has a purpose for this."
  
• "I know what you are feeling." (rarely do 2 people feel the same)
  
• "Everything happens for a reason."
• "(He/She) is in a better place."
• "God won't give you more than you can handle."
• "Are you feeling better yet?"

What thoughts have you heard if/when you've lost a loved one that meant a lot to you and what thoughts did you not like hearing?

*Some of these I gathered from other sites/sources, others are mine