How Royalty Copes With a Grandparent's Death

With heavy hearts, the British Royalty announced the death of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, who died at the age of 99 on April 9.

Royal Grandchildren Mourn Death of Prince Philip 

Prince William is grieving the loss of his grandfather. Still, he knows he has a responsibility to help his children understand the loss of a loved one. With Prince Philip's passing, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are also doing what they can to teach their very young kids about death. They also make sure Prince Philip will not be forgotten in the hearts and minds of his great-grandchildren.

Prince William Explains Death to Children Under 7

The Duke's eldest Prince George is only 7 while Princess Charlotte is 5, and they feel "very upset" over Prince Philip's death. His youngest Prince Louis is a wee 2-year-old and has only met a few times with his great grandfather. The royal couple wants their kids to open up about their feelings, letting go of the taboo of talking about issues that important, noting that even strong, successful people struggle.

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USMagazine revealed that Prince William told his children their great-grandfather has already "gone into heaven" and is now an angel. He also let the children choose a photo of Prince Philip that they hung on the walls at home.

The Royal couple reportedly wants to let their kids down gently as they are still very young.

Remembering Prince Philip

Days after his grandfather's passing, the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince William, shared a rare photo of his father, Charles, Prince of Wales, the eldest son of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. The never-before-seen photograph showed Prince Charles with Prince Philip.

The Duke of Cambridge said that his special memories with his grandfather, as well as the moments his children had with their great-grandpa, would never be taken for granted.

Prince William said he especially would not forget the first time his grandfather held his kids. He also shared an unreleased photograph of Prince Philip with his great-grandson Prince George sitting with him in the carriage, Insider reported. 

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Prince William's Message for his Late Grandfather

In a statement made three days after Prince Philip's passing, Prince William also said he would never forget the "infectious sense of adventure and that mischievous sense of humor" that Prince Philip shared with all.

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Prince William also paid tribute to his grandfather, whose "century of life was devoted to the service of his country and the Queen and his family." He further added that he felt "lucky for his enduring presence through good times and the hardest of days, Hello Magazine noted. He also added feeling grateful that his wife Kate knew Prince Philip, noting how kind his grandfather had been with his wife.

"Catherine and I will continue to support the Queen, which is always what my grandfather would have wanted," the Prince noted, adding that though he will miss his Grandpa, he knows his grandfather would want them to "get on with the job."