Archbishop of Canterbury said Queen Elizabeth feared death

According to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Queen Elizabeth II does not fear death.

Justin Welby, 66, appeared on BBC Radio 4’s Today Show on Friday to discuss the Queen, who passed away at Balmoral Castle in Scotland on Thursday at the age of 96.

“I came away with the impression that she has no fear of death, has hope for the future, is aware of the rock on which she stands, and that this gives her strength,” Welby told The Guardian.

You felt that history was in front of you, but it was history with those piercingly blue eyes flashing, that magnificent smile, and the enjoyment of a witty dry remark,” Welby, 66, concluded.

In June, Queen Elizabeth II was presented with the Canterbury Cross.

WPA Pool/Getty Photographs

The last time Welby met with Queen Elizabeth II was in June, when he presented her with the Canterbury Cross in recognition of her contribution to the Church of England.

During her 70-year reign, Queen Elizabeth II served as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England. This position will now pass to her son, King Charles III.

Buckingham Palace representatives did not immediately respond to Insider’s request for comment.

Members of the royal family rushed to Balmoral Castle to be with the Queen, after Buckingham Palace announced on Thursday that the Queen’s doctors were worried for her health and advised she remain under medical monitoring.

After her passing, King Charles III ascended the throne and issued a proclamation about Queen Elizabeth II.

“We deeply lament the loss of a dear Sovereign and a cherished Mother. “During this season of sadness and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection with which The Queen was cherished by so many people around the world,” the statement added.

The remains of Queen Elizabeth will lay in state until the burial, which will be led by Archbishop Welby.