LONDON - As the world mourns the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the royal family is working to stage the funeral. The plans, codenamed "London Bridge," have been in the works for months. The plan will stage the funeral, the period of national mourning, and the eventual coronation of Charles. Britain will observe a day of national mourning from today until the queen's funeral.
Although Queen Elizabeth is now the former monarch to rule the United Kingdom, her influence continues to be felt today. She met with more than a dozen presidents, including the last American commander-in-chief, Lyndon Johnson. Her calming presence amid a coronavirus pandemic is also widely celebrated. During this crisis, the Queen even participated in virtual events.
Several public ceremonies and commemorations will mark the death of Queen Elizabeth. Thousands of people will be in London to pay their last respects. The Royal Family, heads of state from around the world, and British establishment figures will attend the funeral. At Westminster Abbey, the church will be full of dignitaries. Former British prime ministers will also attend the ceremony. The gates will open to well-wishers at 6.30 a.m. (1.30 am ET). The Queen's coffin will be borne with the Imperial State Crown, Orb, and Scepter.
The Queen's death has a profound effect on British society. For over seven decades, the monarch served as the country's face and the symbol of unity. In a time of global turmoil, the Queen was an enduring presence and helped modernize the monarchy.
