The Duke of Edinburgh’s legacy continues as the Queen reflects on his role as her “constant strength and guide”
The first anniversary of Prince Philip’s passing is expected to be observed privately by the Queen and her closest family members. Described by the monarch as her “constant strength and guide,” the Duke of Edinburgh passed away peacefully in his sleep on 9 April 2021 at Windsor Castle, just months shy of his 100th birthday.
Philip’s death, announced by Buckingham Palace just after noon that day, prompted condolences from world leaders, royal families, and the many charities he supported during his lifetime. Known for his passion for engineering, science, and his candid nature, the duke was an integral part of the Queen’s life and a prominent public figure for over seven decades following his marriage to Her Majesty.
During a recent memorial service, The Right Reverend David Conner, Dean of Windsor, paid tribute to the Duke’s dedication and candid personality, describing him as “a man of passionate commitment” who channelled his intellectual and physical energy into numerous practical ventures while acknowledging his occasional bluntness during conversations.
The Queen is thought to be at Windsor Castle and will commemorate this solemn anniversary in private. Last Christmas, during her annual broadcast, she shared a personal reflection on her late husband, noting the absence of “one familiar laugh” as she mourned his passing. She paid heartfelt tribute to his “mischievous, enquiring twinkle”—a quality that remained with him until the very end.
Philip’s funeral, limited to just 30 mourners due to Covid-19 restrictions, saw the Queen sit alone in her mask, symbolising the profound personal loss she faced. The royal family marked what would have been Philip’s 100th birthday in June 2021 with social media tributes, while Princess Eugenie shared a photo of her grandparents smiling outside St George’s Chapel following her wedding in 2018.
The Earl of Wessex has since shared insights into his father’s character, noting that the Duke would likely have found the celebrations for his centenary “too much fuss.” Edward reflected on Philip’s humility and preference to avoid excessive attention.
To commemorate Philip’s memory, the Queen recently oversaw the planting of a rose named in his honour. This gesture, gifted by the Royal Horticultural Society, was planted in the Windsor Castle gardens as a symbol of Philip’s enduring legacy.
Additionally, a new exhibition will open on Saturday at the National Museum of the Royal Navy in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, celebrating the Queen’s longstanding connection to the Navy as part of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The exhibition will feature the Duke’s naval uniform and his admiral’s cap on public display for the first time.
