Tributes are pouring in for Prince Philip, who sadly passed away on Friday, at the age of 99. His grandsons pay their respects, in statements from Princes William and Harry in tribute to their grandfather.
Prince William described him as an “extraordinary man”. He said he missed his grandpa, but knew that he would want them to get on with the job. William hopes to continue to do what he would have wanted, and will support the Queen.
He feels so lucky to have had such a great example to guide him growing up, and well into his adult years. His grandfather spent his own life in service, to his country and Commonwealth, to his wife and Queen, and to the family. And has always been there through both the good times and bad.
Prince William says he will always be grateful for the many years of kindness his grandfather showed to his wife. In addition, he says he will never take for granted the special memories his children will have of their great-grandpa. He is thankful that they too got to see his “infectious sense of adventure and his mischievous sense of humour”.
“Legend of Banter”
Meanwhile Prince Harry said his grandfather was “a man of service” and the “legend of banter”. He describes him as “authentically himself, with a seriously sharp wit”. According to the prince, he could hold the attention of any room due to his charm. And you never knew what he might say next.
Although to the world he will be remembered as the longest reigning consort to the monarch, a decorated serviceman, a prince and a duke, to Harry he will always be grandpa. To him, he was “master of the barbecue, legend of banter, and cheeky right ’til the end.”
Harry also recognises that his grandfather has been “a rock” for the Queen “with unparalleled devotion”. He sums up by saying thank you to his grandpa for “your service, your dedication to Granny, and for always being yourself.”
Tributes from Parliament
In remembrance of the Duke’s life, MPs began proceedings in the House of Commons with a minute’s silence.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Prince Philip had “touched the lives of millions”. He will be remembered by many for the changes he brought them through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award schemes. The PM went on to to say that he believed the duke’s tireless service to the Queen, the Commonwealth, the armed forces, and other causes would be a model of selflessness, and putting others first.
Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon described the duke and the Queen as a “true partnership”.
Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford said Prince Philip had led a “remarkable” life. He also commented on how the duke had championed a “broad diversity” of causes in Wales.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral will take place at 15:00 on 17 April, at the chapel in the grounds of Windsor Castle. The event will also be televised. His children and grandchildren are all expected to attend.
Prince Harry has returned to the UK especially for the service. His pregnant wife, Meghan, will remain at home in the US on her doctor’s advice. This will be the first time that Princes William and Harry will physically meet since the broadcast of the latter’s interview with Oprah Winfrey last month. The television interview saw the the Duke and Duchess of Sussex criticising the Royal Family. The hope is that the shared grief over the death of Prince Philip will be the ideal opportunity to mend any rifts.
Thank you for reading Princes William and Harry Tribute to Grandfather
Looking for a storage solution for your garden furniture, tools and belongings? Look no further – Garden Sheds at affordable prices.