Queen Elizabeth II’s death on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96, marked the end of an era. Her reign of over 70 years had earned her widespread admiration, even among those who were not staunch supporters of the monarchy. Following her passing, the world mourned the loss of a beloved figure. After the State Funeral at Westminster Abbey, her coffin was transported through the streets of London to Wellington Arch and then to Windsor. The hearse carried her to St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle via the Long Walk.
Funeral Arrangements and Burial
At St. George’s Chapel, a second funeral service was held, where the Choir of St George’s Chapel performed. Before the final hymn, Queen Elizabeth’s imperial state crown, the Orb, and the Sceptre were removed from her coffin and placed on the altar. King Charles placed his mother’s Company Camp Colour of the Grenadier Guards on the casket, and The Lord Chamberlain broke his Wand of Office, laying it down. Guests sang “God Save The King” as the Queen’s coffin was lowered into the Royal Vault. Charles, visibly emotional, fought back tears. A private burial service, attended only by close family members, was held later that evening without media coverage.
Final Resting Place
Queen Elizabeth was laid to rest in the King George VI Memorial Chapel at Windsor Castle, alongside her parents, her sister Princess Margaret, and her husband, Prince Philip. Philip’s remains, previously interred in the royal vault below St. George’s Chapel, were relocated to join Elizabeth in the Memorial Chapel. Weeks after the funeral, the public was once again invited to pay their respects.
Cost of the Funeral
The funeral and lying-in-state of Queen Elizabeth cost the British government approximately $200 million, marking the first state funeral in the UK since Winston Churchill’s in 1965. This expense was detailed in a written statement to Parliament by John Glen, chief secretary to the treasury, who emphasized the government’s focus on ensuring the events were conducted with dignity, safety, and security for the public.
Details on the Cause of Death
Initial speculation about Queen Elizabeth’s cause of death included claims of bone cancer, although Buckingham Palace did not confirm this. Officially, her death was attributed to “old age,” as detailed in the death certificate registered in Aberdeenshire on September 16. The Daily Mail reported difficulties in accessing this information, as a Scottish government department was accused of blocking attempts to obtain the death certificate.
Prince Harry’s Experience
Prince Harry, who was not able to arrive at Balmoral in time to say goodbye to his grandmother, shared details about his experience in an interview with 60 Minutes. He revealed that he learned of the Queen’s death as he landed and was greeted by Princess Anne. Despite the emotional strain, Harry chose to spend time alone with the Queen, reflecting on her life and legacy. He described feeling solace in knowing that she was reunited with her husband, Prince Philip.
Health and Mobility Issues
In the weeks leading up to her death, Queen Elizabeth faced significant health challenges. According to royal author Gyles Brandreth, the Queen reportedly suffered from myeloma, a type of bone cancer. This condition explained the fatigue, weight loss, and mobility issues observed in her final year. Despite not being publicly photographed using a wheelchair, the Queen used one privately to navigate her surroundings.
Decline in Physical and Mental Health
A close friend of Queen Elizabeth has since disclosed that her final months were marked by considerable pain and deteriorating senses. Her vision and hearing significantly worsened, and she struggled with concentration and confusion. The friend noted that the effort required for her to appear at the Platinum Jubilee was monumental. By the end, she rarely left her apartments at Windsor Castle and found even small public appearances challenging.
