On September 8, 2022, Queen Elizabeth II passed away after 70 years and 214 days of serving the crown. She ascended to the throne when she was just 25, following the death of her father, King George VI. Her Majesty ruled until she was 96 years old. Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral took place on September 12, 2022, in the Westminster Abbey, a royal church located in the center of London. About 2,000 people attended, including 90 world leaders. After the ceremony, she was buried next to her husband, Prince Philip, at the King George VI Memorial Chapel in Windsor Castle. 

During her reign, Queen Elizabeth II donated to and worked with over 600 charities. Some of these charity organizations included the Royal Opera House, Blind Veterans UK, and Cancer Research UK. Furthermore, Her Majesty held patronages for over 30 faith organizations, 40 art organizations, 70 education organizations, and 60 sports organizations (Royal UK). She contributed almost over a billion pounds to these nonprofits. As said by The Guardian, “The Queen is among the world’s greatest supporters of charities and has helped the many organizations, of which she is patron, raise over £1.4bn.” 

From Winston Churchill to Liz Truss, Queen Elizabeth II’s reign saw 15 prime ministers. In their weekly private audiences, the Queen served as a politically neutral figure, offering advice and warnings when needed. “The queen played an important constitutional role in the transition of power by inviting prime ministers to form a government,” said US Weekly. Although Her Majesty’s service has come to an end, her legacy will still be carried on through her actions and efforts as a world leader, as well as her family.

While serving as the Queen of England, Queen Elizabeth II also raised four children: King Charles III (formerly Charles, Prince of Wales), Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward. She lived long enough to welcome grandchildren as well as great-grandchildren. With her passing,  her eldest son, King Charles III, will ascend the throne. He will be the first Charles to rule since 1685. After he serves as a monarch, the new Prince of Wales, Prince William, will begin his reign. The title of monarch will continue to be passed down through the family.

After serving 70 years and 214 days it is time for a new leader in the United Kingdom. Queen Elizabeth II has been of service to countless individuals through her accomplishments in charity as well as politics. She has provided immense stability for her country. Now it is time for her family to take their new position and help fuel the legacy that Her Majesty left behind.