TOPLINE The British royal family gathered Saturday for the funeral service of Prince Philip inside St. George’s Chapel on the grounds of Windsor Castle, the first time they have appeared together in public in more than a year.
KEY FACTS
The funeral of Prince Philip, who died last week at age 99, was closed to the public and limited to just 30 people due to coronavirus-related restrictions.
Queen Elizabeth II, who was married to the Duke of Edinburgh for more than 73 years, sat alone during the service, donning a black face mask.
Prince Harry returned home for the services, making his first trip back to Windsor Castle since he and his wife, Meghan Markle, stepped away from the royal family in early 2020.
TANGENT:
Prince Harry’s wife, Meghan Markle, did not attend the services. Markle, who is pregnant with the couple’s second child, was advised by her doctor to remain in California. She reportedly sent a handwritten note and a wreath to be laid for Prince Phillip inside St George’s Chapel Saturday.
CRUCIAL QUOTE:
“We have been inspired by his unwavering loyalty to our queen, by his service to the nation and the Commonwealth, by his courage, fortitude and faith,” Rev. David Conner, Dean of Windsor, said during Saturday’s funeral service. “Our lives have been enriched through the challenges that he has set us, the encouragement that he has given us, his kindness, humor and humanity.”
BIG NUMBER:
100. Philip was mere weeks away from celebrating his 100th birthday when he died peacefully at home last Friday.
By Tommy Beer, Forbes Staff