36 Touching Farewell Messages to Colleagues

Sample goodbye messages to a close teammate

1. “Working side by side on [Project Name] showed me how talented and genuine you are—I’ll miss seeing that dedication daily.”
2. “It’s tough to picture the office without you, but I’m excited for your next adventure. Thanks for all the motivation you gave me.”
3. “Remember those late nights when we thought we’d never finish? Your optimism always pulled us through—thank you for being that spark.”
4. “You’re more than a coworker; you’re a friend who saw me at my best (and worst). Good luck out there, and keep in touch!”
5. “It’s bittersweet saying goodbye, but I can’t wait to see where your future leads. You’ve got all the skills to thrive wherever you land.”
6. “From casual coffee chats to brainstorming sessions, I’ve learned so much from you. Let’s not let distance keep us from connecting now and then.”
7. “You’ve always been my go-to for honest feedback. Here’s hoping your new team appreciates you as much as we did.”
8. “I’ll miss our quick check-ins and inside jokes. Thanks for reminding me work can be fun and fulfilling at the same time.”
9. “No matter where you go, I know you’ll keep spreading that positive energy. Enjoy this next step, and drop me a message if you need anything!”

Sample goodbye messages to a peer off to a new role

10. “Your new workplace doesn’t realize how lucky they are—yet. Best of luck, and don’t forget us once you’re up to speed there.”
11. “We’ve faced so many challenges together, and I can’t thank you enough for the camaraderie. Go rock that new job, [Name].”
12. “I’m sure we’ll cross paths again in this industry—until then, keep that passion burning and do great things!”
13. “You’re off to new horizons, but the mark you left on our team is huge. Let’s catch up soon and compare notes on life after this place.”
14. “Change is never easy, but if anyone can handle it with grace, it’s you. Celebrate this leap, and stay connected.”
15. “I’ll miss our quick brainstorms and venting sessions. Congratulations on the fresh opportunity—go make it your own.”
16. “From spontaneous lunch runs to after-hours Slack jokes, you’ve added color to my work life. Hope you find the same good vibes in your new position.”
17. “So proud you’re taking a step toward the career goals you’ve talked about. Remember, I’m always one call away if you need a sounding board.”
18. “Thanks for showing me how to handle projects with both detail and flair. Wishing you big wins at your next destination.”

Sample goodbye messages to a longtime or retiring employee

19. “It’s hard to imagine these hallways without your familiar face. Thank you for your unwavering dedication through the years—enjoy the well-earned next stage!”
20. “You’ve been the anchor for so many of us, and we’ll miss your steady presence. Best wishes on your new journey, whatever that may look like.”
21. “We’ve leaned on your experience more times than I can count—thanks for always being there. Now’s your time to relax or chase fresh dreams!”
22. “Retirement means a blank slate for new adventures. Hope you find hobbies that bring you as much joy as you brought this team.”
23. “Your departure feels like the end of an era. Still, I’m so happy you get to explore life beyond the office now—enjoy every minute.”
24. “Year after year, you made this place feel stable and welcoming. Grateful for your guidance, and excited to see you enjoy life outside these walls.”
25. “You’ve worn many hats and tackled countless tasks. It’s time for you to finally take a breather, free from deadlines!”
26. “Can’t thank you enough for the kindness and knowledge you passed on. Wishing you a retirement that’s every bit as fulfilling as your career.”
27. “You might be leaving the employee roster, but you’ll always be part of our story. Stay in touch, and keep us posted on your newfound freedom!”

Sample goodbye messages to a manager or team lead

28. “You’ve guided us through so many transitions—your steady hand will be missed. Wishing you the best in all that’s next.”
29. “Thanks for your leadership, and more importantly, your trust in our abilities. Excited to hear about your next chapter, wherever that may be.”
30. “Your supportive style made it easy to step up and learn. Keep that approach going, and I’m sure you’ll keep inspiring others.”
31. “You led by example rather than just telling us what to do. That’s rare, and I’m grateful for it—thank you for everything.”
32. “We’ll do our best to keep the momentum you created, but you’ll definitely leave a gap. Good luck, and stay in touch!”
33. “Working under your mentorship taught me the value of patience and genuine collaboration. Your new team is lucky to have you.”
34. “You didn’t just manage projects; you managed to bring out the best in us. May this next opportunity bring you the fulfillment you deserve.”
35. “We’ve grown in confidence, knowing you had our back. Hope your next role treats you with the same respect you’ve shown us.”
36. “Can’t believe we won’t have your morning pep talks—just know you’ve left a lasting impression on this whole department.”

Saying goodbye is never easy, but PenPals can take a bit of the burden off your shoulders with our done-for-you handwritten cards. Once you've found the right words, we'll handle writing, addressing, and mailing your cards to your recipients.

Browse our cards to give it a go.