King Charles III is saying goodbye to his mother.
The new King, 73, wrote the handwritten note nestled within the flowers that topped Queen Elizabeth’s coffin at her state funeral at Westminster Abbey in London on Monday.
As seen within the colorful wreath, which featured flowers chosen by Charles from three royal residences, the white card on the royal letterhead read “In loving and devoted memory, Charles R.”
The King’s new signature comes with his new place as sovereign. The “R” after his name stands for “Rex,” which means “King” in Latin, the traditional signature for the monarch dating back to the 12th century. When used by Queens, the “R” stands for “Regina,” or “Queen” in Latin. During her historic reign, Queen Elizabeth would sign official communications as “Elizabeth R.”
The loving gesture follows tradition within the royal family. At Prince Philip’s funeral in April 2021, the Queen similarly tucked a handwritten note within the white flowers that crowned her husband’s coffin. In a sentimental gesture, the monarch signed the card “Lilibet” — her childhood nickname.
Philip is thought to be the last person who called her by her childhood moniker.
At the time, the palace would not comment on the personal detail as it was “private.”
As seen inside Westminster Abbey Monday, the Queen’s coffin was draped in the Royal Standard, on which was laid the Imperial State Crown, orb and sceptre, plus the wreath and note.
In a poignant touch, the bright arrangement included foliage cut from the gardens of Buckingham Palace, Clarence House and Charles’ country home of Highgrove House. (People)