On Friday 9 April 2021, it was announced that His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, had passed away at the age of 99.
The Greek-born prince became a naturalised British subject in 1947 ahead of his marriage to the then-Princess Elizabeth. Serving the British people alongside the Queen for over 70 years, some of the Empoword Journalism contributors react to the death of Britain’s longest-serving consort.
Born in Corfu in 1921, Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark and his family were forced into exile following the end of the Greco-Turkish war. However, even his turbulent childhood and family problems could not stop him from becoming a navy hero, a dedicated husband, and the longest-serving consort in British history.
Prince Philip’s legacy is one of integrity, perseverance, and determination in spite of one’s hardships and misfortune. He will be remembered for his straightforward, outspoken, and quick-witted personality, as well as his commitment and dedication to his position within the Royal family
“The news of Prince Philip’s death today, whilst anticipated to come soon given his age and recent health conditions, is nevertheless hugely devastating for the whole country.
“Most of us, myself included, have never experienced such a high profile public figure/member of the royal family die in our lifetimes, so it’s been a strange and sombre day for all of us. Huge kudos to all the journalists and broadcasters who are covering this news; it requires real skill and must be very emotionally draining.” – Lauren McGaun
“The Royal Family are figureheads of our country and integrated into all of our lives without us being truly aware. When I got the news notification pop up on my phone that the Duke of Edinburgh had passed away, any emotions that I was previously feeling just dissipated. I have never met the Royal family or had a direct involvement yet I felt really affected by the news of Prince Philip’s passing.” – Abby Titmuss
“The Royal Family has come under criticisms in recent months and in the past. However, these individuals have such an impact on the people and I do not think that the people over which they reign are always aware of their impact. His death was not a sudden shock but like with the concept of death, it is so final and continuous.
“The Duke was not only a monarch but a father, grandfather, and great grandfather, but he was also a husband and beloved by millions even without a direct relation. It’s hard to truly comprehend the loss of such a devoted and kind gentleman but the silence that has fallen across the country reflects the tragedy that it is.” – Monika Gudzhimisis
Featured image courtesy of Markus Spiske on Unsplash. This image has in no way been altered. Image license is available here.
Gemma Farrell
Gemma is currently finishing a BA in English Lit & History at University College Dublin and is a News Editor with The College Tribune. From September she’ll be studying for an MA in Interactive Journalism at City, University of London.