Harry and Meghan have joined the royal family in paying tribute to Queen Elizabeth II by participating in the monarch’s funeral procession, despite stepping down from their official royal duties. The Sussexes have remained present over a week after her peaceful passing, with Harry attending the state funeral of his beloved grandmother.
During the procession to Westminster Abbey, Harry walked side by side with his brother, the Prince of Wales, behind the Queen’s coffin, a scene reminiscent of his earlier appearances in royal parades. Days earlier, the Duke of Sussex had been seen walking hand-in-hand with Meghan alongside other family members.
Harry and William were part of multiple processions, including one that led to the Wellington Arch and another through the Long Walk to Windsor Castle, where they attended the Queen’s committal ceremony at St. George’s Chapel.
The Queen’s passing has been felt deeply worldwide, especially by her family. For Harry, the loss hit hard, as he had been close to her despite spending the past two years away from home. Harry spoke fondly of their bond, sharing how much he valued their time together, from childhood to adulthood, when his grandmother met his wife, Meghan, and their two children, Archie and Lilibet.
In his tribute, Harry praised the Queen’s unmatched dedication to service, acknowledging the legacy she leaves behind, and expressed his personal grief, saying he would miss her dearly. He also referenced the Queen’s reunion with her late husband, Prince Philip, adding, “We smile knowing that you and Grandpa are reunited and at peace.”
Sadly, this isn’t the first time Harry has faced the heartbreak of losing a close family member. In 1997, at just 12 years old, Harry walked behind the casket of his mother, Princess Diana, after her tragic death. That moment left a deep impact on him.
Reflecting on that experience years later, Harry revealed how difficult it was to follow his mother’s casket, watched by millions worldwide. He expressed that no child should ever have to go through such a painful event, but he also felt honored to have been part of such a significant moment in history.
Harry has spoken about the challenges he faced growing up in the public eye, especially after his mother’s death, which led him to struggle with his emotions and act out in ways that attracted media attention. Over time, with the help of family members, especially William, and therapy, Harry was able to channel his grief in healthier ways, crediting boxing and counseling for helping him heal.
Charles Spencer, Diana’s brother, echoed Harry’s sentiments about the funeral procession, calling it “the most horrifying half hour” of his life and revealing that he had nightmares for years afterward. He opposed the decision to have his young nephews walk in the procession, believing it went against Diana’s wishes, but eventually, the royal family moved forward with the tradition.
For Harry, these heartbreaking moments shaped him profoundly, and while the loss of his grandmother brings back painful memories, he has shown strength in honoring her legacy while continuing to navigate the complexities of royal life.