Queen Elizabeth Speaks Out For The First Time After Prince Philip's Death
Queen Elizabeth is speaking out for the first time after the death of her husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
The royal funeral service took place on April 17, 2021, as viewers from around the world watched the royal procession of Prince Philip's coffin to St. George's Chapel where he was laid to rest. The service came as the royal family was publicly dealing with lots of royal drama, causing onlookers to watch nervously to see if Prince Harry and Prince William would come together in the family moment.
Queen Elizabeth II sat noticeably alone in St. George's Chapel during the service, although it was not family drama that kept her isolated, but COVID-19 protocols. The service itself was scaled back due to the pandemic, with only 30 royal family and friends in attendance (and over 700 military servicemen). News of Philip's death at 99 came by way of Buckingham Palace — and now, on the queen's 95th birthday on April 21, her royal highness is publicly thanking the world for their well wishes.
The queen says the royal family is 'in a period of great sadness'
According to People, Queen Elizabeth II is spending her 95th birthday "privately" at Windsor Castle. The queen celebrated the day by acknowledging all who wished her well upon the death of her husband, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, whom she was married to for 73 years.
"I have, on the occasion of my 95th birthday today, received many messages of good wishes, which I very much appreciate," read the statement. "While as a family we are in a period of great sadness, it has been a comfort to us all to see and to hear the tributes paid to my husband, from those within the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and around the world."
The queen continued, "My family and I would like to thank you all for the support and kindness shown to us in recent days. We have been deeply touched, and continue to be reminded that Philip had such an extraordinary impact on countless people throughout his life."
The letter released by Buckingham Palace was then signed, "Elizabeth R."