3 Examples of Retirement Farewell Email

Explore these heartfelt examples of retirement farewell emails to inspire your own goodbye message.
By Taylor

Understanding Retirement Farewell Emails

When someone retires, it’s a significant milestone not only for them but also for the colleagues and friends they leave behind. A retirement farewell email is a thoughtful way to express gratitude, share memories, and wish the retiree well in their new chapter. Here are three diverse examples to help you craft your own heartfelt message.

Example 1: A Warm and Personal Farewell

Context

This example is suitable for a close colleague or friend who has been a significant part of your work life. It’s personal and heartfelt, reflecting on shared experiences.

As I prepare to say goodbye, I find myself reflecting on the wonderful journey we’ve shared over the years. Your unwavering support and friendship have meant the world to me. From our coffee breaks filled with laughter to the long nights we spent finalizing projects, every moment has been a treasure. I will miss our daily chats and the warmth of your presence in the office.

As I step into this new chapter of my life, I am excited about the adventures that await. I hope you stay in touch, and I look forward to hearing about all the amazing things you will continue to accomplish. Thank you for being such an integral part of my career and my life. Wishing you all the best!

Notes

Feel free to add specific memories or inside jokes for a more personal touch. This approach resonates well with those who have built strong relationships at work.

Example 2: A Professional and Grateful Send-off

Context

This example is ideal for a formal workplace setting, where a retiring employee has made significant contributions and you want to maintain professionalism.

As I prepare to retire, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the incredible experiences I’ve had while working here. It has been an honor to collaborate with such talented individuals who have inspired me daily. Together, we’ve navigated challenges, celebrated successes, and created lasting memories.

I am proud of the work we’ve accomplished together, and I will always cherish the friendships I’ve built along the way. Although I am excited to start this new phase of my life, I will miss each of you dearly. Please keep in touch, and I hope to hear about all the wonderful achievements that lie ahead for you all. Thank you once again for everything.

Notes

This email maintains a professional tone while still conveying appreciation. It works well in corporate environments where relationships may be more business-oriented.

Example 3: A Light-hearted and Fun Farewell

Context

This example is perfect for a workplace with a more relaxed culture, where humor and light-heartedness are appreciated. It’s great for a colleague who had a fun-loving spirit.

Well, the time has come for me to hang up my work boots and trade them for flip-flops! As I retire, I want to say a massive thank you to all of you for making my time here so enjoyable. I’ve loved the banter at the water cooler, the lunch outings, and the countless inside jokes that kept our spirits high.

I’m looking forward to finally having the time to travel, garden, and maybe even take up knitting (don’t laugh!). Please keep me in the loop about the office gossip, and don’t be a stranger! Let’s keep the fun going even after I leave. Cheers to all the memories and to the adventures that lie ahead!

Notes

Incorporating humor and a relaxed tone can make your farewell memorable and enjoyable for everyone involved. This approach is great for informal settings or close-knit teams.


These examples of retirement farewell emails can serve as a foundation for your own messages. Remember, the best farewells are those that come from the heart, so feel free to personalize them to reflect your unique relationships and experiences.