In memoriam
His Royal Highness The Prince Philip,
Duke of Edinburgh KG KT
10 June 1921 – 09 April 2021
Statement from The Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux.
On behalf of the people of Surrey, I have expressed our profound sympathy and sincere condolences to HM The Queen on the death of His Royal Highness, The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Her Majesty and all the members of the Royal Family are very much in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
Throughout their 73 years of marriage, Prince Philip has been The Queen’s constant and trusted companion, steadfastly supporting and advising her in good and more troubled times. In this tribute in 1997, on the occasion of their Golden Wedding, she said: “He has, quite simply, been my strength and stay all these years, and I, and his whole family, and this and many other countries, owe him a debt greater than he would ever claim, or we shall ever know.”
As Patron, President or member of 780 organisations – often linked to a passion for the environment, science and engineering, inter-faith, conservation and sport – His Royal Highness dedicated his life to public service, with 22,219 solo engagements. And it was his innate understanding of how the role of the monarchy could adapt to an ever-changing society that inspired it to change, without losing dignity or the sense of history.
The Awards scheme that he founded in 1956 is testament to the ideals of Prince Philip as a stalwart champion for young people’s development. Today, the DofE is one of The Duke’s most remarkable achievements, equipping and empowering young people from all communities – including so many from across Surrey over the years – to build the skills, confidence and resilience they need to make the most of life. To date, 8 million young people have taken part and the scheme operates in 140 countries. It is perhaps his greatest legacy.
Over more than seven decades, The Duke of Edinburgh has visited Surrey on so many occasions, both on his own and at Her Majesty’s side, showing genuine interest and enthusiasm for our county and our communities. We shall always be immensely grateful for a life so nobly given to the service of our nation, our people and to the Commonwealth.
May he rest in peace.
Please visit the Royal website at www.royal.uk for more information and for the online book of condolence
