Prince Harry Reveals Tearful Moment at Diana’s Funeral

Prince Harry has shared a deeply personal memory from his mother’s funeral. He described the exact moment he finally allowed himself to cry for Princess Diana. This revelation is detailed in his memoir, “Spare,” published in 2023.

Diana died in a Paris car crash on August 31, 1997. Her funeral was a global event watched by millions. Her sons, Harry and William, walked solemnly behind her coffin in a heartbreaking procession.

A Heartbreaking Memory from a Private Moment

Harry wrote that he held back tears during the public service. He nearly broke down during Elton John’s performance of “Candle in the Wind.” But the tears did not fully fall until a private moment later that day.

The moment occurred at Althorp House, Diana’s childhood home. Soldiers laid a bridge over water so the coffin could reach its final resting place. Harry and William followed their mother’s casket to a small island.

Inside the coffin, a photo of the two brothers was placed in Diana’s hands. Harry described them as the men who loved her most. This poignant thought finally broke his composure.

His body convulsed and he began to sob uncontrollably. He felt a moment of shame for violating the family’s stoic ethos. But the grief was too powerful to contain any longer.

The Enduring Influence of a Mother’s Legacy

Harry has often spoken about his mother’s profound influence on his life. He continues to support charities she championed, like The HALO Trust. This work helps him feel connected to her spirit and mission.

According to Reuters, he also honors her through his family. He and his wife, Meghan, gave their daughter the middle name Diana. He has said he measures his life against her memory, hoping to make her proud.

He once stated that he gets his energy from helping others, just like she did. Harry firmly believes that everything he does honors his mother’s legacy. He proudly identifies as his mother’s son.

The emotional burden carried by a young prince finally found its release not in the global spotlight, but in a quiet, private moment of overwhelming love and loss. This single memory defines a lifetime of grief and devotion for Prince Harry.

Thought you’d like to know

When did Princess Diana pass away?

Princess Diana died on August 31, 1997. Her car crashed in the Pont de l’Alma tunnel in Paris.

How old was Prince Harry when his mother died?

Prince Harry was 12 years old at the time of his mother’s tragic death. His brother, William, was 15.

Where is Princess Diana buried?

Diana is buried on a small island within the Oval Lake at Althorp House. This is the Spencer family’s ancestral home in Northamptonshire.

What was placed in Diana’s coffin before her burial?

According to Harry’s account, a photograph of him and Prince William was placed in her hands. This was a final, private gesture from her sons.

How does Prince Harry honor his mother today?

He supports her charitable causes and advocates for mental health. He also named his daughter, Lilibet, after her.

Sources: People, Reuters, Associated Press, BBC News