Buckingham Palace, London, on Thursday afternoon, announced that Queen Elizabeth II died peacefully at her home in Balmoral, Scotland. This was after news erupted that she was under medical supervision. A death notice was posted on the gates of Buckingham Palace.
The queen, aged 96, was the United Kingdom’s longest-serving monarch, with 70 years on the throne. News of her passing saw tearful crowds gathered at Buckingham Palace. Her first son Charles is now the new monarch and will be known as King Charles III.
At 73 years, he will be the oldest person to become king in British history. He describes his mother’s death as a moment of great sadness for him and all members of his family.
At 1:00 pm Thursday, the standard of the Governor-General was lowered to half-mast to mark the Queen’s passing. Prime Minister Andrew Holness, while describing Queen Elizabeth II as a global matriarch, says she was a steadying and constant force throughout many crises, adding that she led with dignity and grace.
During her reign, the queen visited Jamaica on 6 occasions; first in 1953, then 1966, 1975, 1983, 1994 and 2002.
The government has announced a period of mourning effective, September 8 to 19, noting a day of mourning will be observed on September 18.
During the period of mourning, the government of Jamaica says it is the customary recommendation that no celebratory activities should take place.
