After 96 years of life and 70 years of reigning over the United Kingdom, Queen Elizabeth II died on Sep. 8 surrounded by her family.

That morning, the public was made aware of the late queen’s health condition; members of the royal family reportedly returned to her estate, Balmoral Castle in the Scottish Highlands, that morning. Midday, she passed away and news of the event was released soon later, leading to immediate mourning and tributes from all across the world. Her son Charles III assumed the throne and will carry out his regal service as the UK’s next monarch until his death, just as his mother had.

Born April 21, 1926, the Queen provided a living link to the past. During World War II, rather than fleeing for safety, she stayed in her country and provided support as a mechanic. Later, at the age of 27, in 1952, Elizabeth ascended to the throne after the passing of her father. Throughout her life, she supported decolonization by being in full support of many countries leaving her realm. 

Elizabeth’s reign ushered in a new image of what a modern monarch should look like. To the public, she was elegant, graceful, and compassionate, fulfilling her cultural duties as head of state with care. 

Because she earned the love and admiration of people all over the world, the Queen’s funeral will last for several days, so that the thousands of mourners wishing to pay their respects may do so. On Sep. 14, her coffin will move from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall, where it will remain publicly and under constant guard for four full days, before traveling on Sep. 19 to her final resting place, Windsor Castle.