Prince William Pays Touching Tribute to Late Grandfather Prince Philip

Prince William has broken his and Catherine's silence about the loss of his extraordinary grandfather Prince Philip, who passed away on Friday, with a deeply touching message.

On Monday, William released the message of him and his wife on the Royal Family's official website.

It is also shared with more than 14 million followers on their official social media accounts, alongside a never-before-seen photograph of his then-toddler son Prince George sitting next to the Duke of Edinburgh in Norfolk.

The sweet photo was taken by George's mum, the Duchess of Cambridge, in 2015, shows the Duke of Edinburgh, a keen carriage driver well into his 90s, smiles at the camera while his grandson George looks off to the side.

The little future king, dressed in shorts and a knitted jumper, is holding open a picture book.

In his statement, William told how he will miss his grandpa, but Philip, who died aged 99 on Friday, would want us to get on with the job.

He said, “My grandfather's century of life was defined by service, to his country and Commonwealth, to his wife and queen, and to our family.

I feel lucky to have not just had his example to guide me, but his enduring presence well into my own adult life, both through good times and the hardest days.”

William also expressed gratitude that his wife had so many years to get to know his grandfather and for the kindness he showed her.

He will never take for granted the special memories his children will always have of their great grandpa coming to collect them in his carriage and seeing for themselves his infectious sense of adventure as well as his mischievous sense of humour.

The Duke of Cambridge also praised his grandfather's work ethic.

In a 2018 speech at the Charity Commission Annual Public Meeting, Prince William said, “My grandfather, Prince Philip, has been one of the most tireless public servants of this country, deeply committed to helping young people fulfil their potential.”

William also admired how Prince Philip supported Queen Elizabeth in her role as monarch.

“He's totally put his own personal career aside to support her, and he never takes the limelight, never oversteps the mark.

He's always on her side.

He's an unwavering companion,” said William.

Catherine also looked to Philip in how he supported the Queen, as she will someday be consort to Prince William when he is king.

“To be able to do that by yourself, I think would be a very lonely place to be.

But I think to have the support of your husband there by your side on those occasions, and behind closed doors as well, I think is really special,” Catherine said in the documentary.

Prince Philip was an extraordinary man and part of an extraordinary generation.

Prince William and Catherine will continue to do what he would have wanted and will support the Queen in the years ahead.

The Royal Family has been in mourning since the Duke of Edinburgh's passing, with members sharing their memories and condolences publicly.

Prince Philip's funeral is set to take place on Saturday, April 17, at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle.