Two days before her death at age 96 on September 8, 2022, Elizabeth II was still writing in the diary she kept. Royal biographer Robert Hardman discovered it while working on updating the biography of King Charles III, titled “Charles III: New King. New Court. The Inside Story.
“It turns out she was still writing (in her diary) at Balmoral two days before her death,” he reveals and adds: “Her final entry was as factual and practical as ever.”
It is in just five words and was written on September 6 following a visit by Her Majesty’s Private Secretary, Sir Edward Young. “Edward came to see me,” the Queen wrote.
It is believed that her secretary had come to help Elizabeth formalize the arrangements for swearing in members of the council of the newly elected British Prime Minister, Liz Truss. The monarch also met the Prime Minister that day – a meeting which was her last public engagement.
After her death, her son Charles paid tribute to his mother’s dedication to public service. “In his life of service, we have seen this abiding love of tradition, as well as this fearless acceptance of progress, which makes our nation great,” he said in a televised address. The affection, admiration and respect she inspired became the hallmark of her reign. And, as every member of my family can attest, she combined these qualities with warmth, humor, and an unerring ability to always see the best in people.”
