Tributes from her grandsons

Following her death on 8 September 2022, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle released a heartfelt statement. Harry described his grandmother as a “guiding compass” in her commitment to service and duty, praising her grace and dignity throughout her life. He reflected on her lasting impact, quoting her own words after Prince Philip’s passing: “Life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings.”

Prince William also issued his own tribute, expressing both grief and gratitude. He spoke of the wisdom and reassurance he had received from the Queen well into adulthood and highlighted how special it was that his wife and children were able to create lasting memories with her.

Her final written words

In the year following her death, royal biographer Robert Hardman revealed the contents of the Queen’s last diary entry. Known for her practicality, she had continued writing until just two days before she passed away at Balmoral. True to her nature, her final words on paper were described as “factual and practical as ever,” offering a final glimpse into the steadfast character that defined her reign.