Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth II‘s husband has breathed his last at 99. He served by the queen as the longest-serving consort of any British Monarch for 65 years only retiring from the public role in 2017. Ever since he’s largely remained private. The statement from Buckingham Palace confirmed the news today and also put it on their social media handles informing the public of the Duke’s demise. The Duke Of Edinburgh passed away peacefully at Windsor Castle. As a sign of mourning all flags on landmark buildings in Britain have been lowered to half-mast.

Take a look:

Prince Philip’s health had been deteriorating for quite some time and he had recently been at the King Edward VII hospital in London before Christmas 2019 for observation and treatment in relation to a “pre-existing condition” as well. He was rarely seen in public after he stepped down from public duties in 2017 and lived mostly in the Queen’s Sandringham estate in Norfolk. But he moved in with her at Windsor Castle during the lockdown periods throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. The couple also celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary on 20th November 2020. The Duke also celebrated his 99th birthday during the lockdown. The Duke Of Edinburgh and Queen Elizabeth were married for 73 years and the Queen has often described him as her strength and stay.

Our heartfelt condolences to the Queen and the entire Royal Family. May his soul rest in peace.