The Queen Returns to Work Amid Mourning for Prince Philip

The Queen demonstrated unwavering dedication to her royal duties by resuming work, despite being in a period of mourning following the passing of her husband, Prince Philip, just four days earlier.

On Tuesday, April 13, Her Majesty presided over a retirement ceremony for Earl Peel, the former Lord Chamberlain, marking his departure after 14 years of service.

Prince Philip, who peacefully passed away at the age of 99 at Windsor Castle, received heartfelt tributes from across the nation, with flowers adorning residences like Windsor and Buckingham Palace.

The family declared a two-week period of royal mourning, but the Queen's commitment led her to bid farewell to Earl Peel ahead of schedule, showcasing her profound sense of duty.

Prince Andrew, the Queen's second son, shared that his mother is facing this challenging time with resilience, with the family rallying around to provide support.

Prince William, the Queen's grandson, vowed to honor Prince Philip's wishes and continue offering steadfast support to his grandmother while carrying out his duties.

Meanwhile, Princess Anne, the Queen's only daughter, made her first official appearance since her father's passing by participating in the Royal College of Emergency Medicine's Spring Conference via video link, fulfilling her role as the organization's patron.

In adherence to the announced two-week royal mourning period, the monarchy and its households are continuing engagements appropriate to the circumstances, as confirmed by a royal official.

Earl Peel, who had overseen preparations for Prince Philip's funeral under Operation Fourth Bridge, handed over responsibilities to Baron Parker, the former MI5 Spy Chief, just before the Duke's demise.

The Lord Chamberlain, responsible for senior appointments within the household and facilitating communication between the Sovereign and the House of Lords, ensures seamless coordination between Buckingham Palace and Clarence House.

During a ceremony held at Windsor Castle, the Queen accepted the wand and insignia of office from her former royal aide, as recorded in the Court Circular detailing the day's events attended by the royal family.

The upcoming Prince Philip Farewell Service is anticipated to be a unique royal funeral, with attendees adhering to face mask and social distancing protocols.

The Telegraph reported that due to social distancing rules, the 94-year-old monarch might have to sit alone during the service, as she remains at Windsor Castle within a reduced staff “HMS Bubble.”

The Duke's private secretary, Brigadier Archie Miller-Bakewell, a long-standing confidant, may be among the limited non-royal individuals invited to the historic farewell ceremony, owing to his membership in the exclusive HMS Bubble.

Scheduled for Saturday, April 17, at Windsor Castle, the funeral will be a modest affair due to the Covid-19 pandemic, although it will be broadcasted and photographed.

Preceding the service, there will be a procession around the castle grounds, with further details about the funeral arrangements set to be disclosed on Thursday, as reported by the Daily Mail.