['Our family has been a little down lately because our grandmother recently passed away', 'Awe I am so sorry to hear that.  What happened?', 'She had some heart issues. Its going to be hard around the holidays']
I imagine so.  The holidays are the times we really miss those who are no longer with us.  I hope in time though you can remember the happy times and the good memories you have made with her over the years.
My grandmother died and it has really taken a toll on our family.