Last week, Prince Philip, husband of Queen Elizabeth and the longest-serving consort passed at age 99, a few months away from his 100th birthday.
The Queen announced her husband’s death on Friday. Flags lowered at half-mast at Buckingham Palace to signify mourning.
The Royal Family said in a statement: “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
“His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle. Further announcements will be made in due course. The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss”.
A funeral service is due at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle on April 17. In line with the pandemic rules, the ceremony the maximum number of guests will be 30. A custom-made Land Rover which the late prince took part in designing will carry The Duke’s coffin.
Two of Prince Philip’s grandchildren born this year were named after him. Sadly, he never got to meet them due to the pandemic. Princess Eugenie and husband Jack Brooksbank named their firstborn August Philip Hawke Brooksbank. The boy came into the world on February 9. A month later, Zara Tindall, daughter of Princess Anne and Mark Phillips named their third child Lucas Philip Tindall. Zara made headlines after giving birth on her bathroom floor on March 21. The baby was born healthy.
The Queen and Prince Philip released a statement shortly after his dramatic birth saying. They were looking forward to meeting their 10th great-grandchild.
However, safety restrictions prevented the late Duke from meeting the last additions to the royal family.
Both Prince Charles and Prince William also have Philip as middle names: Prince Charles Philip Arthur George, and Prince William Arthur Phillip Louis.
Eugenie, the younger daughter of Duke and Duchess of York, Prince Andrew, and Sarah described her granddad as a ‘rock’ that kept The Firm together. “I think Grandpa is incredible. He really is strong and consistent. He’s been there for all these years, and I think he’s the rock, you know, for all of us.”
Source: Mirror UK
