What does an atheist say to someone who is grieving?

> When you can no longer say 'I'm praying for you'

Except, you can. I'm essentially an atheist, and if a friend said he's praying for me I'd take in the spirit given, friendship and love.

Certainly not everyone feels that way, and it's case by case, but I think in all things on both sides of any interaction we can all mostly just lighten up.

You are unlike 99% of the atheists that it has been my experience to encounter, for what that's worth.

"I'm sorry for your loss. I'll keep you in my thoughts. I'm here if you need anything."

A popular & insightful quote notes (edited for relevance):

A human being should be able to ... comfort the dying, ... die gallantly. Specialization is for insects. -Robert A. Heinlein

Hard enough for the religious, TFA author notes it's nigh unto impossible for atheists.