Prince Harry Remembers 'Cheeky' Grandfather Prince Philip 3 Days After His Death, Says He 'Was Authentically Himself With A Seriously Sharp Wit'
Apr. 12 2021, Updated 11:34 a.m. ET
Prince Harry paid tribute to his grandfather, Prince Philip, on Monday, April 12 — just three days after the duke passed away at 99 years old.
“My grandfather was a man of service, honour and great humour. He was authentically himself, with a seriously sharp wit, and could hold the attention of any room due to his charm—and also because you never knew what he might say next,” the 36-year-old wrote in a statement.
“He will be remembered as the longest reigning consort to the Monarch, a decorated serviceman, a Prince and a Duke. But to me, like many of you who have lost a loved one or grandparent over the pain of this past year, he was my grandpa: master of the barbecue, legend of banter, and cheeky right ‘til the end.”
Harry, who just returned to the U.K. for the first time since his tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey aired, shared that his grandparents' relationship was so special.
“He has been a rock for Her Majesty The Queen with unparalleled devotion, by her side for 73 years of marriage, and while I could go on, I know that right now he would say to all of us, beer in hand, ‘Oh do get on with it,'” he continued. “So, on that note, Grandpa, thank you for your service, your dedication to Granny, and for always being yourself. You will be sorely missed, but always remembered — by the nation and the world.”
He concluded, “Meghan, Archie, and I (as well as your future great-granddaughter) will always hold a special place for you in our hearts."
“Per Mare, Per Terram,” he added, which means “By Sea, By Land.”
Harry, who was super close with his grandparents, will not bunk with his brother, Prince William, or father, Prince Charles, while he quarantines in the U.K., which will enable him to attend the funeral, which is on Saturday, April 17.
"He will be quarantined at Windsor Castle since they have a few spare rooms. Harry will not be staying with his brother or his father," a source exclusively told The Royal Observer.
Meghan wanted to attend the funeral, but since her doctors advised her not to travel, she will be staying back home in California.
