Prince Philip (1921-2021)

For over 65 years, one’s papa Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, had been the unwavering presence alongside Britain’s longest-serving monarch, who even referred to himself as the “world’s most experienced plaque unveiler.”

As Royal Consort, forever at Queen Elizabeth II’s side, and often a few paces behind her, Prince Philip was officially gifted the title of the ‘highest-ranking racist’ in the UK, (despite the fact he was an immigrant himself), who became world renowned for his remarkable gift of well intended, but often imperfectly delivered remarks.

He was born a grandson of Greece’s King George I on a dining table, and was forced into exile out of the country aged 1 in a box of oranges after the Royal Family were overthrown. In 1947, he secured a more stable royal perch when he married one of his cousins, the future Queen of the United Kingdom.

He witnessed, and participated in, a lot of history during his century on Earth, and his tributes reflect that – painting a picture of his itinerant childhood, his years in the navy, his Disney romance with one’s mother, his subsequent difficulties adjusting to a role that was subservient to her, and his attempts to preside over both his family and the institution of the Monarchy.

He will always be remembered as the longest-reigning consort to the Monarch, a decorated serviceman, a Prince, a Duke and a very special, much loved figure, who fell just short of his 100th birthday and a special telegram (love letter) from his Queen. But to me, he was a loving father; master of the barbecue, King of the karaoke machine, and cheeky sod right until the very end.

Thank you for your service, honour, humour, your dedication to mother, and for always being yourself. Always.

Farewell, papa. Until we meet again.

All one’s love,

~Charles_HRH~ (Future King)