By Douglas J. Lanzo
Copyright 2022

First published in Founder’s Favorites, Issue 21 (December 2022)

Dedicated to the late Queen Elizabeth II

A life of loving service
mourned by millions worldwide
full of dignity and grace
her spirit by our side.

She welcomed prime ministers
until her final breath
her royal duties honored
each day before her death.

She awed us with composure
a rock amidst a shore;
through wars and tribulations
her grace we did adore.

The longest serving monarch
in Britain’s history,
she persevered through trials
with rare humility.

Her wit and sense of humor
endeared her to our hearts;
her deeply felt devotion
admired in all parts.

Uniting all of Britain
her Majesty the Queen
did win her subjects over
with values rarely seen.

Uplifting Britain’s spirits
throughout the great World War,
comforting displaced children
a heavy heart she bore.

Her crown and royal scepter
at last this week were laid
upon a chapel’s altar
as mourners bowed and prayed.

In harmony she brought them
from near and distant lands,
her memory still healing
with loving outstretched hands…