On April 9, 2021, Prince Philip passed away peacefully in the comfort of his own home. Having been hospitalized for about 28 days, Telegraph reported that he wanted to pass away “in his own bed” and “on his own terms.” According to Marie Claire, Philip was 99 when he died at his Royal Home in Windsor. Buckingham Palace released the following statement: “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle. Further announcements will be made in due course. The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.” He is set to have a small funeral with just close members of the Royal Family on April 17. 

Besides mourning the loss of Prince Philip, many have begun to wonder who would inherit his titles. The line of monarchy is very complex, and it was announced that Prince Charles, the eldest child and son of Queen Elizabeth, will be taking on the title of the Duke of Edinburgh. Along with this title, he also received the Earl of Merioneth and the Baron of Greenwich titles, which Prince Philip also held. According to CBS News, Charles will not always hold the title of the Duke of Edinburgh. He is set to pass this title onto his younger brother, Prince Edward. As of right now, Prince Charles has gained the title due to a patent that states that the title must be passed down in succession. However, “when Queen Elizabeth II dies and Prince Charles becomes king, the title will “merge with the crown,” meaning it can be regranted. It will then be bestowed to Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip’s youngest son, Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex.”

Hopefully, Queen Elizabeth is able to find some peace in this chaotic and tragic time, remembering the legacy of her husband of 70 years.