Queen Mother Sirikit of Thailand, a revered figure known for her humanitarian work and cultural contributions, passed away on October 24, 2025, at the age of 93. The Royal Household Bureau announced her death from complications related to a blood infection that began on October 17, despite intensive medical care.
Born on August 12, 1932, Sirikit was the daughter of Thailand’s ambassador to France. She met King Bhumibol Adulyadej in Paris and married him in 1950. As queen consort, she became a symbol of grace, collaborating with the French designer Pierre Balmain to revive the Thai silk industry.
Beyond fashion, Queen Sirikit was dedicated to social and environmental causes. In 1976, she founded the SUPPORT Foundation to help rural communities preserve traditional crafts and improve livelihoods. She also initiated various environmental conservation projects, including wildlife breeding centers and forest preservation.
In 2012, Sirikit suffered a stroke that limited her public appearances, and she received long-term care at Chulalongkorn Hospital starting in 2019. Her husband, King Bhumibol, passed away in 2016, marking a significant loss for the nation.
Following her death, King Maha Vajiralongkorn declared a one-year mourning period, with national flags at half-staff for 30 days. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul urged government officials to observe mourning protocols. Mourners gathered outside Chulalongkorn Hospital to pay their respects, reflecting a deep collective grief.
Queen Sirikit’s passing signifies the end of an era for Thailand. She was not only a beloved royal figure but also a symbol of maternal virtue and national pride, leaving an enduring legacy in Thai society, culture, and the environment.
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