During Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in September 2022, a powerful image captured the hearts of millions around the world. Her grandsons, Prince William and Prince Harry, walked side by side behind her coffin as she was laid to rest at Westminster Abbey. The moment marked the end of her historic 70-year reign, the longest of any British monarch.

A private farewell few knew about

Beyond the public ceremonies, there was a more intimate moment that remained unknown to many royal fans. In his memoir Spare, published in January 2023, Prince Harry revealed the final words he whispered to his grandmother when he visited her body after her passing.

Like several other members of the royal family, including Prince William, Harry was unable to reach Balmoral in time to say goodbye to the Queen while she was still alive. Upon arriving, he was greeted by Princess Anne, who guided him to the room where her body lay.

In his book, Harry wrote about the emotional encounter:
“I advanced with uncertainty and saw her. I stayed still, watching her carefully for a good while. I whispered that I hoped she was happy and that she was with Grandfather now. I said that I admired her for having carried out her duties until the end. The Jubilee, the welcoming of the new prime minister.”