On a day many expected to be ordinary, one of the most significant world leaders of modern times passed away. Queen Elizabeth II of England died Sept. 8 after 70 years on the throne, making her the longest-serving monarch in British history. During her time as queen, she bore witness to enormous social change, met with 13 previous U.S. presidents, and served as the much-beloved figurehead of the British Commonwealth. Although many will mourn the death of Queen Elizabeth II, it shouldn’t be forgotten how rich and full her life was which earned her the respect and praise as a great leader. 

She came into power when she was 25 years old and since then worked tirelessly to be the foundation that Britain was to be built on. She was a decorated leader in all aspects from her diplomatic visits to her service during World War II to bringing stability to the Commonwealth throughout troubling times. Her ability to be stable was particularly notable as being a figurehead, she was more in the public eye than most of the government. Her sweet demeanor produced a calming and safe feeling to the public that kept the country in high spirits. 

Coming into power as your country is suffering turmoil and loss is difficult and heartbreaking. However even amidst the crumbling state of Britain, she maintained composure and made sure the job was done properly, cementing herself as not just a leader but as a reformer. 

She was also a wonderful mother to her four children — King Charles III, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward — as well as a wife to the late Prince Philip. Being a mother and a wife is already challenging enough for many women, but she balanced all of it. She leaves behind a wonderful family and now can join her loving late husband Prince Philip in death. 

One of her greatest accomplishments came in 1991 when she became the first British monarch to address the U.S. Congress. She was met with three standing ovations and was a clear hit to those on the floor that day. Her charm was one of her greatest assets and why she was so close to many presidents and proved that charisma and a good attitude always has a place among politics. 

The queen was 96 years old when she died. Reportedly, during a meeting two days prior with newly appointed Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Liz Truss, the queen had blue bruises on her hands that sparked health concerns for the monarch. The signs were clear that the queen’s time was almost up after her service not just to her country, but to the world.