Princess Anne Shares Final Moments with Her Mother Before Passing

Queen Elizabeth II’s cause of death has been confirmed as old age, according to her official death certificate, released by the National Records of Scotland. The document details that the Queen passed away at 3.10 pm on 8 September at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, after an extraordinary 70-year reign.

The news of her passing marked the beginning of a national mourning period, culminating in the Queen’s state funeral on 19 September. The ceremony, held at Westminster Abbey, brought together more than 2,000 dignitaries, including world leaders and heads of state, for a moving tribute to the longest-reigning monarch in British history. The event, broadcast globally, attracted a peak UK audience of 28 million viewers.

During the mourning period, Princess Anne, the Queen’s only daughter, shared that she was fortunate to be with her mother in her final 24 hours. As the “informant” listed on the death certificate, Princess Anne would have notified the registrar of her mother’s passing. Her presence at her mother’s side as the end approached was deeply poignant for the royal family and the public alike. King Charles III, visibly affected, followed the coffin throughout the procession, accompanied by his siblings and other close family members.

While the world watched the Queen’s funeral, paying their respects in person and through media coverage, the royal family also honoured their late matriarch in private moments. The Queen’s burial took place at Windsor Castle, where a new black marble ledger stone was installed at the King George VI Memorial Chapel. This stone commemorates the Queen’s life alongside her father, King George VI, her mother, Elizabeth, and her husband, Prince Philip, who passed away the previous year.

The Queen’s death certificate also notes that no other factors contributed to her passing, confirming that old age was the sole cause. The document was registered in Aberdeenshire on 16 September, with the medical practitioner listed as Douglas James Allan Glass.

The Queen’s death was a significant moment in both British and global history, as she had ascended to the throne at just 25 years old following the death of her father. A period of mourning followed her death, with flags lowered at British government buildings and the royal family taking time to grieve.

In a reflection of the profound impact of her life, the Archbishop of Canterbury, in his sermon at Westminster Abbey, recalled the Queen’s lifelong promise to serve her country and the Commonwealth, stating, “Rarely has such a promise been so well kept.” Her legacy, characterised by duty, joy, and dedication, remains deeply ingrained in the hearts of the British people and beyond.

Following the funeral, the monarchy faces a new chapter. King Charles III has reportedly expressed a desire to hold a more modest coronation ceremony, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by ordinary citizens, particularly in light of the current cost of living crisis.