Buckingham Palace has confirmed that Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh and husband of Queen Elizabeth II, passed away on Friday, April 9th. During his recent month-long hospital stay for an infection and a heart condition, Prince Philip underwent a heart procedure and was then released on March 16th, the last time he was seen in public. In line with his dying wish, the duke died peacefully at Windsor Castle, where he and the queen had spent a majority of their time during the past year as a result of the lockdown. 

His death came on the day of Prince Charles, his eldest son, and Camilla’s 16th wedding anniversary. The couple did not post on social media about their anniversary but rather joined the royal family in sharing news of Prince Philip’s death. The news from the royal family’s social media accounts was met with a flood of tributes from people all over the world, including British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, U.S. President Joe Biden, former U.S. presidents, and leaders of various other countries.

“With his Duke of Edinburgh awards scheme he shaped and inspired the lives of countless young people and at literally tens of thousands of events he fostered their hopes and encouraged their ambitions,” said Mr. Johnson in London, paying tribute to Philip. “We remember the Duke for all of this and above all for his steadfast support for Her Majesty the Queen. Not just as her consort, by her side every day of her reign, but as her husband, her ‘strength and stay’, of more than 70 years.”

Following her husband’s death, Queen Elizabeth is expected to enter into a period of mourning during which her state affairs are paused. While this period will likely be 8 days long, a longer period of royal mourning could last another 30 days.

Prince Philip reportedly mentioned previously that he would prefer a simple funeral over a grand affair, which will mostly be accomplished due to the pandemic and restrictions. The royal family will start off the service with a national moment of silence. The ceremony will be on Saturday, April 17th at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle. Although the guest list will be limited to 30 people, the royal family will broadcast the funeral service so that everyone who desires can mourn with them and celebrate Prince Philip’s long life of 99 years.