Queen Elizabeth's Lady-in-Waiting Describes What Prince Philip Was Like as a Husband
Prince Philip was as a “heaven-sent” match for Queen Elizabeth, according to one of her previous ladies-in-waiting.
Lady Prudence Penn, 95, recalled the first time she met the prince in 1947, telling Tatler that she was, “immediately struck by the physical perfection of this fair-haired young man–such a complement to the beauty of Princess Elizabeth.” Penn called him a “heaven-sent consort for Her Majesty in every way.”
Penn described the late duke as a sweet and devoted husband. “I loved the way he would boost the Queen's ego by telling her how lovely she looked on their way to an engagement,” she said. “He knew how to bring the best out of a woman, and I am sure his advice and encouragement to her were paramount in their relationship.”
“Any task he took on, he tackled with enthusiasm and skill,” Penn said. She went on to add, “He was one of the most practical men I have ever met. He was intensely interested in so many things, always curious to know more and, if possible, to make improvements.”
There were “great similarities” between Philip and Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, according to Penn. “I actually said that to him at the time and he decried it,” she said. “I think I was right.”
Prince Philip, who was the longest-serving consort in British royal history, passed away earlier this year at the age of 99.
"He had always wanted to have a lower-key funeral than that which was ordained for him, and due to current circumstances he got his wish,” Penn said. “It was a funeral that proved to be one of the most moving, fitting and memorable occasions."
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