In a world where celebrities often dominate headlines with grand gestures and public displays, it's refreshing to hear stories of those in the limelight who manage to maintain a sense of humility and personal touch. One such individual was the late Queen Elizabeth II, whose acts of kindness and down-to-earth demeanor have been fondly remembered by a former aide, Samantha Cohen, who worked closely with her for 18 years.

Samantha Cohen's journey with the Queen began long before she stepped into the role of an aide. As a schoolgirl in Brisbane, she caught a glimpse of the monarch during her Silver Jubilee year visit to Australia in 1977, an event that left her 'beyond excited'. Little did she know that she would later become one of the Queen's most trusted aides and closest confidantes.

Samantha Cohen, who worked closely with the late Queen Elizabeth II for 18 years, revealed that despite her global recognition, the Queen had no ego and embodied the antithesis of celebrity, prioritising her role over the fame it brought. Credit: Linkedin / Samantha Cohen and Instagram / The Royal Family

Cohen's career with the Royal Family saw her rise from the press office to the Queen's communications secretary and eventually to her assistant private secretary. Her duties brought her into almost daily contact with the Queen, accompanying her on three Australian tours and witnessing the monarch's personal side that few others had the privilege to see.

The relationship between Cohen and the Queen was one of mutual respect. The Queen, known for not having favourites, was described by Cohen as an 'incredible' employer who valued the efforts of her staff to make her life 'as easy as possible'. This dedication was reciprocated by the Queen in various thoughtful ways.

For instance, during summers at Balmoral and Christmases at Sandringham, Cohen and her family were given a cottage to stay in, complete with gifts from the Queen that bore handwritten tags. These personal touches extended to the Queen's interactions with Cohen's children, who would sometimes encounter Her Majesty during their stays. The Queen, a 'shy' person at heart, cherished these moments of privacy and family time, away from the public eye.

Cohen also shared insights into the Queen's personality, describing her as 'gutsy' and a lover of driving her cars fast around Balmoral, much to the thrill (or perhaps the terror) of her passengers. Despite her status as one of the world's most famous people, the Queen was said to have 'no ego' and was 'the antithesis of celebrity'. She took her role seriously, performing it to perfection while keeping it separate from her personal identity.

The Queen's approach to her public duties was also marked by a sense of enjoyment and relaxation, particularly during her Australian tours, which were seen as less formal and more laid-back. Her love for her role and her subjects was evident in her speech following the 1999 referendum in Australia, where she gracefully acknowledged the decision of the Australian people regarding the future of the monarchy.

After nearly two decades of service, Cohen left the Royal Family in 2019, having been asked by the Queen to lend her expertise to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle after their wedding. Her tenure with the royals was marked by high regard, as evidenced by her involvement in the 'Sandringham summit' and her being made a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order for her personal service to the monarch.

Cohen's favorite memories of working for the Queen include a delightful day trip to Italy for lunch with then-president Giorgio Napolitano and a visit to Pope Francis, showcasing the Queen's adventurous spirit even at the age of 88.

As we reflect on the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II, stories like Cohen's remind us of the unique blend of duty, kindness, and humanity that she brought to her role as a monarch. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, her dedication to her family and country, and her personal touch in the lives of those who served her are qualities that will be remembered and cherished by many.

Key Takeaways

• Samantha Cohen worked closely with the late Queen Elizabeth II for 18 years, observing her personal and professional traits.
• Despite being a globally recognised figure, the Queen was described as having no ego and being the antithesis of celebrity, focusing on her role rather than the fame it brought.
• The Queen enjoyed driving at high speed around Balmoral and valued privacy, especially at her Scottish residence, where she also showed hospitality towards her staff and their families.
• After serving nearly two decades with the Royal Family, Samantha Cohen transitioned to other high-profile roles, but her fondest memories remain of her time working for the Queen.

To our readers at the Seniors Discount Club, we invite you to share your own experiences or encounters with the Queen or any acts of kindness by public figures that have touched your lives. Let's celebrate the personal connections that can sometimes be found in the most unexpected places, even among those who live in the spotlight.

 

[Barbara V]

Let her rest in peace

 

[Kahlan28]

I have always admired and loved Queen Elizabeth II, she was such a gracious and beautiful lady, who dedicated her entire life to her country May her beautiful soul rest in peace

 

[margaretritchie48]

I have always admired and loved Queen Elizabeth II, she was such a gracious and beautiful lady, who dedicated her entire life to her country May her beautiful soul rest in peace

I agree No one can replace her as Queen.

 

[magpie1]

Not overly surprised with Samantha Cohen's revelations about Queen Elizabeth 11, to me anyway she always seemed to exude that type of elegance and charming sophistication coupled with a great sense of humility and care for others, plus a quirky sense of humour. She was definitely one of a kind and a well loved and admired Monarch of the UK and the Commonwealth of Nations. May she R.I.P.