A highly respected member of a prominent Royal family has passed away at the age of 93, losing her battle with a serious blood infection.

Sirikit, the former Queen of Thailand and mother of the current monarch King Vajiralongkorn, breathed her last on Friday. She not only served as a mother to the reigning king but also as the wife of Thailand’s longest-reigning monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Over their impressive 66-year marriage, Sirikit and King Bhumibol Adulyadej became one of the world’s longest-married Royal couples, a status comparable to Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip.

The news of her passing has deeply saddened the nation, with the people mourning the loss of their beloved queen.

In an official statement from the Thai Royal family, it was confirmed that Sirikit had passed away, shocking millions due to the monarchy’s immense popularity. Throughout the country, portraits of Sirikit are displayed in homes and public places, symbolizing the monarchy’s perceived semi-divine authority.

According to Al Arabiya, the palace revealed that Queen Sirikit had been battling various illnesses since her hospitalization in 2019. One of these illnesses, a blood infection diagnosed earlier this month, led to her deteriorating health and eventual passing at the age of 93 at Chulalongkorn Hospital, as reported by the Daily Star.

Sirikit was not only a fashion icon in Thailand during her reign but also dedicated herself to charitable endeavors, supporting the underprivileged and marginalized communities.

She garnered comparisons to prominent figures in the Western world, with many likening her to former US First Lady Jackie Kennedy and Britain’s Princess Diana.

The Thai populace is reeling from the news, pondering how the nation will navigate the absence of her presence.

Housekeeper Sasis Putthasit expressed deep sorrow over Sirikit’s passing, recognizing the profound impact it will have on the Thai community.

Following Queen Sirikit’s demise, King Vajiralongkorn has decreed a year of national mourning for the Royal family.

Television hosts nationwide have been instructed to wear black attire during news broadcasts as a sign of respect for the late monarch.

Queen Sirikit first gained prominence when her husband ascended the throne in 1946, guiding the nation through the aftermath of World War 2.

She remained a prominent public figure in Thailand until the end of King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s rule in 2016. Subsequently, she retreated from public life after her son