Duchess of York Honors Queen Elizabeth on Her 98th Birthday: ‘Sorely Missed’
Sarah, Duchess of York, fondly remembered the late Queen Elizabeth II on what would have been her 98th birthday, sharing a heartfelt tribute to the former monarch and “dear friend.” The Duchess, once married to Queen Elizabeth’s son Prince Andrew from 1986 until their divorce in 1996, took to Instagram to express her sentiments and gratitude.
On her social media, the Duchess wrote, “Today we are remembering Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on what would have been her 98th birthday. Thank you for all that you have taught us, for being a steadfast leader and dear friend. You are sorely missed.” This tribute comes more than eighteen months after the Queen’s passing in September 2022, reflecting the ongoing reverence and affection Sarah holds for her.
In addition to her tribute, the Duchess of York shared personal anecdotes about her connection to the late Queen, particularly through the care of Queen Elizabeth’s beloved corgis. The Duchess has been entrusted with these pets, who have been a symbol of the royal household for decades. During an appearance on the UK TV show ‘Lorraine,’ Sarah recounted the rituals she continues with the corgis that recall the late Queen’s habits, such as snapping Digestive biscuits for them, a favorite treat of the Queen’s.
“There’s now seven dogs, five Norfolks and two corgis. The corgis are bigger, so there’s a few punch-ups, but they’re very fine,” she explained. “I remember what the Queen would do, she used to break a little Digestive biscuit. When I break it, they come running because they can remember the scent, her little hands… it was so sweet! So, I sort of do that ritual and everyone gets cross with me for feeding the dogs too much!”
Moreover, the Duchess shared a touching belief regarding the corgis’ behavior, suggesting a deeper spiritual connection to the late Queen. “I always think that when they bark at nothing, and there’s no squirrels in sight, I believe it’s because the Queen is passing by,” she told People.
Sarah, who is also the author of ‘Her Heart For a Compass,’ continues to share her life with daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, weaving the legacy of Queen Elizabeth into her family’s narrative and everyday practices, keeping the memory of the Queen alive in both grand and quaint gestures.