The passing of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8, 2022, remains a poignant chapter in British history.
As the nation marks the second anniversary of her death, the royal family and the public alike reflect on the profound impact of the late monarch’s reign.
Queen Elizabeth II died peacefully at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, a loss that resonated deeply across the globe.
The Royal Family’s official social media channels honored her memory today by sharing a cherished photograph of her smiling at a Buckingham Palace summer party in 2019.
The caption read, “Remembering Queen Elizabeth II 1926 to 2022.”
On this somber anniversary, The Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine, led their own tribute during a small service at St David’s Cathedral in Wales. Prince William, who has spoken emotionally about his grandmother’s influence, expressed his gratitude for the wisdom she imparted during her remarkable 70-year reign. He noted, “While I grieve her loss, I also feel incredibly grateful for the benefit of the Queen’s wisdom and assurance into my fifth decade.”
Prince William was able to spend precious time with Queen Elizabeth in her final months, thanks to the supportive understanding of his wife, Catherine. The couple’s decision to be closer to Balmoral in her later days allowed William to offer personal support to both his grandmother and his father, King Charles III. Their regular contact and conversations were a source of comfort and strength during that time.
King Charles III, accompanied by Queen Camilla, observed the anniversary with a private visit to Cy Kirk, a small granite church near Balmoral where the Queen was a devout worshipper. Reflecting on the day, a source revealed that Charles “misses his mummy terribly” and sought solace in quiet contemplation and prayer. According to reports, no formal remembrance plans were in place, adhering to royal convention.
In Robert Hardman’s recent biography, it was revealed that Charles received the first formal address as “Your Majesty” from his mother’s private secretary, Sir Edward Young, while driving back to Balmoral following her death. The personal moment underscores the gravity of the transition that the royal family faced.
Despite a turbulent year marked by health challenges and ongoing tensions with the Sussexes, King Charles has endeavored to maintain a strong and streamlined monarchy. The Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, remains a controversial figure, with reports suggesting that his relationship with the late Queen was strained in her final years. The Queen’s emotional state following Harry’s departure from royal duties in 2020 was a matter of public concern, further complicated by the fallout from his March 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey.
Nevertheless, it is believed that Prince Harry was at the Queen’s bedside in her final moments, demonstrating the enduring family ties despite the earlier disagreements.
As the royal family reflects on Queen Elizabeth II’s legacy, the nation joins them in remembering a monarch whose reign defined an era and left an indelible mark on history.