Queen Elizabeth II , the worlds second-longest reigning monarch, died Thursday at the age of 96.

The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon, the palace said Thursday. The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.

Elizabeth, who was Britains oldest monarch and served as queen for a record 70 years, is survived by her four children, eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Her late husband of 73 years, Prince Philip , died on April 9, 2021.

Elizabeths eldest son, Prince Charles , succeeds her as sovereign of the United Kingdom . As king, he also takes her titles Defender of the Faith and Supreme Governor of the Church of England. Elizabeths grandson Prince William and his son, Prince George , are now first and second to the throne, respectively.