How Prince Philip's Funeral Reunited the Royal Family

Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles and more members of the royal family reunited for the first time in over a year to celebrate the life of Prince Philip, who was laid to rest on April 17.

By Cydney Contreras Apr 17, 2021 3:06 PMTags
Watch: Prince Philip Remembered in Never-Before-Seen Royal Photos

The world is grieving the loss of Prince Philip, but no one feels his absence more than his family.

On Saturday, April 17, Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, Prince Harry, Prince William and more members of the royal family reunited to celebrate the life and legacy of the Duke of Edinburgh, who died at the age of 99 on April 9. 

In addition, several members of Prince Philip's German and Greek relatives paid their respects to the late Duke. 

The last time that a majority of the members of the House of Windsor gathered together was at the Commonwealth Day Services at Westminster Abbey in March 2020. It marked one of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's last engagements as senior members of the firm. Prior to Commonwealth Day Services, the family—including Prince AndrewPrince Edward, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie—gathered in June 2019 for Trooping the Colour. 

Meghan, who is pregnant with a baby girl, remained in the United States as she was advised not to travel, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson announced on April 10. However, a spokesperson confirmed she will watch the services from home.

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Prince Philip's Life in Photos

Though the coronavirus pandemic prevented a larger gathering from happening, the services were carried out exactly as Prince Philip wished. In particular, the Duke requested his casket be carried to St. George's Chapel by a dark, bronze green Land Rover he took part in designing 18 years ago. Additionally, he was given the full military send-off he requested, with numerous military personnel taking part in the services.

Tim Rooke/Shutterstock

Now that the services are completed and the Duke has been laid to rest, the Queen and other royals will continue a period of mourning. But Princess Eugenie promised in her statement on the Duke's passing that she will "look after" the monarch during this difficult time.

Alastair Grant/AP/Shutterstock

"I will remember you in your children, your grandchildren and great grandchildren," the Princess of York wrote. "Thank you for your dedication and love for us all and especially Granny, who we will look after for you."