Princess Anne Thanks Late Mom Queen Elizabeth in Heartfelt Tribute

etonline.com:

Queen Elizabeth II. In a statement released Tuesday, the royal opened up about her final moments with the late 96-year-old monarch. «I was fortunate to share the last 24 hours of my dearest Mother’s life,» Princess Anne began. «It has been an honour and a privilege to accompany her on her final journeys.

Witnessing the love and respect shown by so many on these journeys has been both humbling and uplifting.» Princess Anne then noted how the world is grieving the loss of her mother as well, with Her Majesty serving as Britain's longest-ruling monarch. «We will all share unique memories.

I offer my thanks to each and every one who share our sense of loss,» she continued. «We may have been reminded how much of her presence and contribution to our national identity we took for granted.»Last Thursday, Buckingham Palace announced that Queen Elizabeth «died peacefully» at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

Her Majesty's family -- including her four children, Princess Anne, Prince Charles (now King Charles III), Prince Andrew, Duke of York, and Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, grandchildren Prince William and Prince Harry, and several other members of the royal family -- all traveled to be with her following her death.