by Katharine Manalo || Photo Credit: Chris Jackson/Good Morning America

Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-ruling monarch, died at the age of 96 at Balmoral Castle last September 8, 2022, after more than seven decades of an era-defining reign.

The news of her peaceful passing followed hours after Buckingham Palace announced that doctors were concerned about the deteriorating health of Britain’s Queen, which led her relatives to rush to Balmoral Castle in Scotland to bid their final goodbyes.

The Queen’s 73-year-old eldest son, the next in line to the throne, was proclaimed King Charles III hours after her death, making him the new monarch of the United Kingdom and the head of state of 14 other realms, including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

“The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family,” King Charles III said in his first statement as monarch.

“I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world,” the new monarch added.

Thousands of people gathered in front of Buckingham Place, where a startling quiet ensued when the flag was lowered to half-mast. As soon as the sign about the passing of the only monarch most Britons had ever known was attached to the black iron gates, the crowd rushed to the entrance.

Queen Elizabeth II’s death will be commemorated by a solemn ceremony. No government announcements will be made until after her funeral, which will be recognized as a public holiday in approximately ten days.