People are mourning the death of the longest-serving British monarch in history.
Queen Elizabeth II died yesterday afternoon on September 8, 2022, at Balmoral Castle, her estate in the Scottish Highlands where she had spent most of the summer. She was 96.
Yesterday morning, news that the Queen was not well and that her family had been summoned was making its rounds but no one suspected what would follow. Later in the day, news that the Queen had died left many in shock. Even Google dropped its colours and went grey.
Queen Elizabeth II became the first British monarch to reign for 70 years and celebrate a platinum jubilee. The Queen ascended the throne in 1952 and had undoubtedly witnessed enormous social change.
Her son Charles III, who is now the king, said the death of his beloved mother was a “moment of great sadness” for him and his family and that her death would be “deeply felt” around the world. “I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued the following statement: “For most Canadians, we have known no other Sovereign. Queen Elizabeth II was a constant presence in our lives. Time and again, Her Majesty marked Canada’s modern history. Over the course of 70 years and twenty-three Royal Tours, Queen Elizabeth II saw this country from coast to coast to coast and was there for our major, historical milestones.
“She would proclaim ‘it was good to be home’ when returning to her beloved Canada. She was indeed at home here, and Canadians never ceased to return her affection.
“Her Majesty vowed to devote her life to the service of the Commonwealth and its people. On behalf of all Canadians, I thank Queen Elizabeth II for honouring this vow and for a lifetime of service.
“Her Majesty’s reign spanned so many decades – a period when we came into our own as a confident, diverse, and forward-looking country. It is her wisdom, compassion, and warmth that we will always remember and cherish.
“Today, a page has not only been turned, but a chapter in our shared history has drawn to a close. I know Her Majesty’s service to Canada and Canadians will forever remain an important part of our country’s history. The coming days will be a period of mourning for Canadians, as it will be for all Commonwealth citizens, ending with a national day of mourning when a commemorative service will be held to mark the passing of our Sovereign,” stated Trudeau and offered condolences to the family.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford stated: “On this sad day, I join everyone across our province, country and the world in commemorating the remarkable life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen of Canada. Throughout her historic reign, she taught us the true meaning of selfless service and was respected and admired for her sense of duty and commitment to charity.
“After assuming the throne in 1952, Her Majesty led the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth through decades of changes, reigning as the longest-serving Monarch in the history of her nation. Even with her many responsibilities, the Queen always held a special place in her heart for Canada, having made twenty-two official visits to our shores throughout her life.
“While I express my sincere condolences to King Charles III, I also congratulate His Majesty on his ascension to the throne of the United Kingdom and wish him great success in continuing his mother’s legacy. On behalf of all Ontarians, I am sending our thoughts and prayers to the entire Royal Family, the people of the United Kingdom and to Her Majesty’s many admirers all over the world.
Long live the King!”
The Métis Nation of Ontario also issued a media release with the following statement: “In 1982, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II signed the Constitution Act of Canada, enshrining the rights of Métis people in Canada, an act that will echo through generations.
Our thoughts are with the Royal Family, especially His Majesty King Charles III, and all others who were inspired by her life of service.”
Municipalities across Muskoka, including the Town of Huntsville and the Township of Lake of Bay, have lowered their flags in honour of the Queen. The Township of Lake of Bays also posted a video on its Twitter account of their flag being lowered.
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