Prince William and Kate Middleton marked the third anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s death with a heartfelt gesture that surprised royal watchers. On Monday, Sept. 8, the couple stepped out together at the Women’s Institute in Sunningdale, Berkshire — an organization close to the late monarch’s heart.
Prince William & Kate Middleton Honor Queen Elizabeth
Prince William, 43, was set to make the visit solo, but Kate surprised everyone by tagging along, according to People. Wearing a black checkered dress, the Princess of Wales smiled warmly as she and William listened to stories about Queen Elizabeth’s decades with the Women’s Institute — a group she led as president from 2003 until her death in 2022 at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.
Members recalled how the Queen often took tea, enjoyed cake, and engaged in conversation with members of the Women’s Institute during her 80-year affiliation with the group.
In 2017, members told People how excited they were to see her join a Women’s Institute meeting following an illness. “After her severe cold, it was lovely to see her. She looked so pretty in that [megenta] color,” Mary Relph said.
William has previously acknowledged the important role the late Queen played not only in his own life but also in supporting Kate and their three children, Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7. “My wife has had twenty years of her guidance and support. My three children have got to spend holidays with her and create memories that will last their whole lives,” William said.
King Charles & Prince Harry Also Remembered the Late Monarch
Prince Harry, 40, returned to the U.K. for the WellChild Awards in London, but not before privately honoring his grandmother at her final resting place in St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. A spokesperson for the Duke of Sussex confirmed to the BBC that he laid a wreath of flowers and paid his respects quietly.
Meanwhile, King Charles and Queen Camilla marked Accession Day in Scotland at Balmoral. They attended prayers at Crathie Kirk, where remembrance was offered for both Queen Elizabeth and Katharine, Duchess of Kent, who died on Sept. 4 at the age of 92.
Despite their overlapping schedules, William and Harry are not expected to reunite during the Duke’s trip. Kensington Palace confirmed the Prince of Wales will carry out engagements through Wednesday, directly coinciding with Harry’s public appearances.
Although the brothers will not meet, there remains speculation about whether Prince Harry will see his father, King Charles.
