PEOPLE reported that Her Majesty signed the personal note with her childhood nickname, “Lilibet.” According to the Associated Press, the 94-year-old monarch also chose the white lilies, small roses, freesia and other flowers in the wreath that adorned the Duke of Edinburgh’s casket. Queen Elizabeth married Prince Philip at Westminster Abbey in 1947. In a speech on their golden wedding anniversary in 1997, Her Majesty said that her husband “is someone who doesn’t take easily to compliments but he has, quite simply, been my strength and stay all these years, and I, and his whole family, and this and many other countries, owe him a debt greater than he would ever claim, or we shall ever know.” Prince Philip passed away peacefully at Windsor Castle on April 9. Members of the royal family, including Prince William, Kate Middleton and Prince Harry, gathered over a week later for the Duke’s funeral. Her Majesty sat alone during the service, an image that broke hearts as viewers watched the funeral. Due to the UK’s current COVID-19 restrictions, mourners must social distance from individuals outside of their household or support bubble. Only 30 guests were allowed to attend the service on April 17. The day before her husband was laid to rest, the Queen shared a private photo of her and Prince Philip. The beautiful image was taken in 2003 at the top of the Coyles of Muick, Scotland. A message alongside the personal snapshot read: “Her Majesty and the Royal Family are grateful for all the messages of condolence from around the world and have been touched to see and hear so many people sharing fond memories of The Duke, in celebration of his life.” Next, 45 of Queen Elizabeth’s quotes.
