UK natives react to Queen Elizabeth II’s state funeral
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Two locals originally from the United Kingdom say they’re saddened by the Queen’s passing, but are looking forward to the reign of King Charles III.
One England native, Jackie Feaver, who lived in Westgate-on-Sea in England before moving to the states in 1977, said although she knew the Queen was nearing her last days, it was still a shock to hear the news.
Feaver said the Queen was a great role model for young girls since taking the throne in 1952.
“It must have been hard for her in a man’s world, but a woman can approach things more sensitively and it was very nice to have a woman role model in a man’s world," said Feaver.
Anne Bird who lived close to the Queen in Windsor moved to the states in 1982.
Bird recalls when King George VI passed away and former Princess Elizabeth took on the royal reigns.
She said King Charles' rulings will be different than what we’ve seen before.
“He will never give up his environmental thoughts, which I approve of," said Bird. "They’ll just be less pomp, perhaps, and I do feel that up until now royalty has probably been pampered somewhat.”
Feaver said Queen Elizabeth II's passing has given more unity to the U.K. and others under British sovereignty.
“The French president made a lovely comment," said Feaver. "He said, ‘To you, she is your Queen, but to us, she was the Queen and I think that’s how most of the rest of the world saw her as she was the Queen."
The next royal event will happen in 2023 as King Charles III awaits his coronation.
A certain amount of time has to pass to mourn and prepare for the “once-in-a-lifetime” event where his wife Camilla will also be crowned as Queen Consort.
