King Charles has shared a heartfelt tribute to his late mother Queen Elizabeth, marking what would have been her 100th birthday with a message reflecting on her life and legacy.
In a three-minute video released on Tuesday, the King said his family was pausing to honour her memory.
“Today, as we mark what would have been my beloved mother’s one hundredth birthday, my family and I pause to reflect on the life and loss of a Sovereign who meant so much to us all and to celebrate anew the many blessings of her memory,” he said.
Speaking from Balmoral Castle, the Queen’s favourite residence, where she died on September 8, 2022, King Charles reflected on her impact across decades of change.
“Queen Elizabeth’s ‘promise with destiny kept’ shaped the world around her and touched the lives of countless people across our nation, the Commonwealth and beyond,” he said.
“Her near-century was one of remarkable change and yet, through each passing decade, through every transformation, she remained constant, steadfast and wholly devoted to the people she served.”
Born Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor on April 21, 1926, she became queen in 1952 following the sudden death of her father, King George VI, and was crowned the following year.
Her 70-year reign spanned major global and social change, from the decline of the British Empire to the modern era.
Reflecting on her enduring connection with the public, Charles said she would be remembered in both historic and personal moments.
“Millions will remember her for moments of national significance; many others for a fleeting personal encounter, a smile, a kind word that lifted spirits…. or for that marvellous twinkle of the eye when sharing a marmalade sandwich with Paddington Bear in the final months of her life.”
The King acknowledged that current global events may have concerned his mother, but said her outlook continued to offer guidance.
“Much about the times we now live in I suspect may have troubled her deeply, but I take heart from her belief that goodness will always prevail and that a brighter dawn is never far from the horizon.”
He also pointed to a message she shared as a young princess, saying it remained relevant today.
“For as a young Princess Elizabeth put it in her first ever public broadcast, aged just 14, we can each play our part ‘to make the world of tomorrow a better and happier place’. It is a belief which I share, with all my heart.”
Charles said her life should be remembered not just with sadness, but as a source of inspiration.
“So young or old, and whatever our differences, let us therefore seek to follow this example as we make today not the marking of a milestone felt by absence but the celebration of a life well-lived, and a legacy of hope, as we strive together towards a ‘better, happier tomorrow’ — one rooted in peace, justice, prosperity and security.”
“In this, I renew my own solemn pledge of duty and service to you all.”
He ended the tribute with a personal message.
“God bless you, darling Mama; you remain forever in our hearts and prayers.”
Images: Instagram
