(LONDON) — Prince Philip’s death Friday at the age of 99 marked the end of an era in Britain’s royal family.
Philip was a steadfast supporter of his wife of 73 years, Queen Elizabeth, and a consistent presence in public life.
When he officially retired from royal duties in 2017 at age 96, Philip had completed more than 22,000 solo engagements since 1952, given 5,496 speeches in his travels to more than 76 countries, authored 14 books, served as patron to 785 organizations and made 637 solo overseas visits, according to Buckingham Palace.
Philip was also a constant presence in the life of his family. In addition to Queen Elizabeth, the duke is survived by four children, eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Upon his death, leaders from around the world reflected on Philip’s 99 years of life and the legacy he leaves behind.
Buckingham Palace announced Philip’s death with a statement that read, in part, “The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.”
The statement was shared on the royal family’s website, as well as the social media accounts of royal family members, including Philip’s grandson, Prince William, and his wife, Duchess Kate.
Members of the royal family are not expected to issue further public comments as they continue their period of mourning.
Following tradition, Buckingham Palace also placed an announcement of Prince Philip’s death on the gates of the palace. Flags at the palace will be flown at half-mast from today until the morning of the day after the funeral service for Philip.
U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke about Philip’s life and legacy in comments delivered Friday outside 10 Downing Street in London.
“Prince Philip earned the affection of generations here in the United Kingdom, across the Commonwealth and around the world,” Johnson said. “Like the expert carriage driver that he was, he helped to steer the Royal Family and the monarchy so that it remains an institution indisputably vital to the balance and happiness of our national life.”
Former U.S. president George W. Bush said in a statement, “Laura and I are saddened to learn the passing of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. Throughout his long and remarkable life, he devoted himself to worthy causes and to others. He represented the United Kingdom with dignity and brought boundless strength and support to the sovereign. Laura and I are fortunate to enjoyed the charm and wit of his company and we know how much he will be missed. We join those around the world offering heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the entire Royal Family.”
https://t.co/2dSvZhXPw1 pic.twitter.com/ylBSJAofHX
— British Army (@BritishArmy) April 9, 2021
“>The British Army also shared news of the death of Philip, whose military career included service in the British Navy during World War II.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison released a statement reflecting on Philip’s service to Australia, a Commonwealth nation.
“Prince Philip was no stranger to Australia, having visited our country on more than 20 occasions,” Morrison said in the statement. “Through his service to the Commonwealth he presided as patron or president of nearly 50 organizations in Australia. Given his own service, Prince Philip also had a strong connection with the Australian Defense Force.”
“For 65 years, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme has encouraged over 775,000 young Australians to explore their leadership potential. Forty thousand young Australians are currently participating in the program,” he said. “Australians send our love and deepest condolences to her Majesty and all the Royal family. The Commonwealth family joins together in sorrow and thanksgiving for the loss and life of Prince Philip. God bless from all here in Australia.”
Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf remembered Philip as a “great friend” of his family.
“The Queen & I are deeply saddened to learn of the death of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh,” he said in a statement. “Prince Philip has been a great friend of our family for many years, a relation we have deeply valued. His service to his country will remain an inspiration to us all. We offer our sincere condolences to Her Majesty The Queen, The Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom.”
India Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered Philip’s legacy of community service.
“My thoughts are with the British people and the Royal Family on the passing away of HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh,” he said in a statement. “He had a distinguished career in the military and was at the forefront of many community service initiatives. May his soul rest in peace.“
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Neytanyahu said Philip will be missed “in Israel and across the world.”
“I express my deepest condolences to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles, the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom on the passing of the Duke of Edinburgh,” he said. “Prince Philip was the consummate public servant and will be much missed in Israel and across the world.”
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
Copyright © 2021, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.