The late monarch’s four-word response after learning she was nearing the end

Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, passed away at Balmoral in September 2022 at the age of 96. She was surrounded by family when she died at 3:10 p.m., though Buckingham Palace formally announced her passing three hours later.

The statement confirmed she died peacefully and noted that King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla would remain at Balmoral before returning to London. Soon after, the flag at Buckingham Palace was lowered to half-mast, and a death notice was displayed on the palace gates.

Throughout her reign of more than 70 years, the Queen worked with 15 prime ministers, from Winston Churchill to Liz Truss. King Charles described her death as “a moment of the greatest sadness,” honoring her as both a sovereign and a mother deeply loved across the world.

Though her death certificate listed “old age,” reports later indicated she had been battling bone marrow cancer, specifically myeloma. Accounts from Boris Johnson and royal reporter Robert Jobson revealed her visible frailty in her final months. Even simple tasks, like pouring tea, became a struggle.

According to former butler Paul Burrell, doctors warned she might not live past Christmas 2021. Her response was calm and brave: “Well, that’s a shame.” Yet she asked them to keep her alive long enough to see her Platinum Jubilee.

To prolong her life, she underwent blood transfusions and adjusted her lifestyle, even forgoing her favorite drinks. Her determination allowed her to celebrate 70 years on the throne with one last public wave.

Queen Elizabeth’s enduring strength, grace, and commitment left a lasting mark on history. She will be remembered as a monarch who faced both life and death with unwavering dignity.