While the Queen' s grieving family members joined the procession on Wednesday following her coffin to Westminster, her closest aides were not far away. Her loyal ladies-in-waiting were pictured lined up in black frocks and hats inside for the service and just like the Queen's children and grandchildren, put on brave faces as they watched their Queen take her final journey from Buckingham Palace.
Some of the women had been by Her Majesty's side for more than 60 years and had become more than just her staff, as they had grown to become loyal companions. As the nation faces dramatic change with the passing of the much-loved monarch, it will be felt deeply among her 'Head Girls' who put the Queen's busy diary of official engagements together, arranged private family events, and dealt with everything in between.
It is expected that a couple of the women will soon retire, as they are well into their 80s, but had wanted to stay serving the Queen up until the very end. A few others could stay on for a while longer providing a helping hand to the new Queen Consort, Camilla.
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Traditionally, a lady-in-waiting is a female personal assistant at a Court, attending to a royal woman or a high-ranking noblewoman.
Historically, in Europe, they would often be a noblewoman but of lower rank than the woman to whom she attended.
Although she may either have been a retainer or may not have received compensation for the service she rendered, a lady-in-waiting was considered more of a secretary, courtier or companion to her mistress rather than a servant.
So while they don't have the most senior title or earn a salary, the role usually goes to a woman of aristocratic background who is wealthy enough to take on the demanding position out of her love for the monarchy.
Among the seven women lined up inside Westminster Hall to pay their respects and bid a farewell to their beloved boss included Lady Susan Hussey, Dame Mary Morrison, Lady Elizabeth Leeming, Susan Rhodes, and Dame Annabel Whitehead.
The women, elegantly dressed in black and pearls, some leaning on walking sticks, were pictured near the entrance to the hall, which filled with silence at the arrival of the Queen's coffin to lie-in-state ahead of the monumental state funeral on Monday.
An insider told the Mail: "Everyone has a girl crush on the ladies-in-waiting. They are fun, formidable — and know absolutely everything. Fascinating and terrifying in equal measure.
"They are utterly fabulous and have been such loyal servants to Her Majesty."
It has been suggested that whilst out on official royal visits, the Queen would secretly communicate with her ladies.
If she twisted her wedding finger around, this was an indication that she wanted to be rescued from the conversation.
Following Her Majesty's peaceful passing at Balmoral last Thursday, the Queen will now lie-in-state until 6.30am on Monday, September 19 - the day of her funeral.
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