Seven heartbreaking words sum up late Queen's final moments before passing away

Sir Edward’s memo regarding the Queen's death on 8 September 2022 provides a touching account of the monarch's final moments in before she slipped away after tirelessly serving the nation

The late Queen's final moments at Balmoral were described as "very peaceful" and devoid of pain, with her private secretary, Sir Edward Young, noting that she "wouldn't have been aware of anything."

This poignant detail encapsulates the serene passing of the monarch, who "slipped away" in her sleep, according to a memo now part of a biography of King Charles III, Charles III: New King, New Court, by Robert Hardman. Buckingham Palace has refrained from commenting on the "unauthorised" biography, which is currently being serialised in the Daily Mail. King Charles was reportedly picking mushrooms nearby when his mother passed away.

Sir Edward’s memo regarding the Queen's death on 8 September 2022 provides a touching account, stating: "Very peaceful. In her sleep. Slipped away. Old age." In seven poignant words Sir Edwards added: "She wouldn't have been aware of anything." No pain." This document is believed to be housed in the Royal Archives and is a crucial part of Hardman’s book.

The biography also reveals that a locked red box containing paperwork was discovered at the late Queen's bedside. This box contained two sealed letters—one addressed to then-Prince Charles and the other to Sir Edward. It was brought to the royal aide shortly after he penned his memo and also included her list of individuals to receive the Order of Merit for "exceptionally meritorious service" across the Commonwealth, according to the Daily Mail.

In those final moments, King Charles and Queen Camilla were able to spend about an hour with the Queen privately before her passing. Princess Anne, a minister from a nearby church, and the Queen's senior dresser took turns at her bedside, ensuring she was not alone.

As the reality of the situation unfolded, King Charles called both of his sons, urging them to come to Scotland as soon as possible to say their goodbyes. Having gone out to gather mushrooms to clear his head, he was informed of his mother’s death while driving back to Balmoral. It was during this time that he was first addressed as "Your Majesty."

When the King called Prince William via the Buckingham Palace switchboard to share the heartbreaking news, he simply said, "it's me," realising he could not disclose that he had just become monarch. He also attempted to reach his younger son, Prince Harry, but was unable to connect, as Harry was already en route to Scotland. This heartfelt account, centred around the words "wouldn't have been aware of anything," paints a picture of a peaceful end, allowing the royal family to focus on their profound loss amidst the transition of power.