Queen Elizabeth II’s Final Diary Entry Just Days Before Her Passing
In a poignant reflection on her life, Queen Elizabeth II maintained a daily diary up until her death. According to royal biographer Robert Hardman’s latest work, the last entry she made on September 6, 2022, just two days before her passing, noted the visit of Sir Edward Young, her private secretary. This entry was penned while she was at Balmoral, her cherished retreat in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, where she chose to spend her final moments before passing away on September 8, 2022.
The Queen’s diary mentioned, “Edward came to see me,” during a time when she was making arrangements for the swearing-in of then-Prime Minister Liz Truss, who would become the UK’s shortest-serving prime minister, stepping down just a month later. Elizabeth appointed Truss from Balmoral, marking her last public duty before her death at 96.
In a recent tribute, King Charles III spoke fondly of Balmoral, calling it one of his mother’s most treasured places. Hardman noted in his biography that the Queen’s last entry was straightforward, reflecting her practical nature. It seemed to outline an ordinary day filled with her typical duties.
Having ascended to the throne at 25 following her father King George’s death in 1952, Queen Elizabeth II became Britain’s longest-reigning monarch. Throughout her reign, she kept a detailed journal, chronicling the day’s events each evening.
In a nod to his mother’s legacy, King Charles III continues the tradition of diary writing, though with a different approach. A source revealed that while he no longer writes elaborate narratives, he diligently notes down daily activities and reflections.
In the wake of her passing, King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla made their first joint public appearance in Northern Ireland less than a week later, emphasizing a sense of continuity amidst their royal duties. In recent remarks, the King recalled his mother’s love for Balmoral, expressing that it was indeed her favorite place, where she chose to spend her last days among the beauty of nature.
As the royal family navigates this profound loss, the memories and traditions established by Queen Elizabeth II continue to resonate, keeping her spirit alive in both the monarchy and the hearts of those who admired her.