Graham Craker, the beloved royal bodyguard who was by the side of Princes William and Harry during some of the most pivotal moments of their lives, has passed away at the age of 77.
Known affectionately as ‘Crackers’ by the two Princes, Craker dedicated 35 years of his life to the Metropolitan Police, spending 15 years as their personal protection officer.
A Trusted Protector During a Tragic Time
On the fateful day Princess Diana tragically passed away in a car crash, Craker was with Princes William and Harry at Balmoral in Scotland.
The royal family, including their father, Prince Charles, and their grandparents, Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh, were all present when the news broke.
Craker vividly recalled the emotional moment he shared with William shortly after learning of their mother’s death.
He described how William, walking his dog outside, simply said, “Thank you” when Craker expressed his condolences.
Supporting the Princes Through Their Grief
Craker was also there for the Princes during Diana’s funeral, walking alongside them as they followed their mother’s hearse from St James’s Palace to Westminster Abbey.
He recalled the profound respect shown by the public, with people stopping their cars and bowing as the hearse passed by.
For William, having Craker by his side on that somber journey was a comfort, a gesture that spoke to the deep bond the two shared.
A Close Relationship With the Princes
This bond was reflected in the way the Princes spoke about Craker.
In his memoir Spare, Prince Harry fondly remembered how he and William used to call their protector “Crackers,” laughing about the bodyguard’s role in clearing flowers off their car windscreen during the funeral procession.
Craker’s relationship with the Princes extended beyond his protection duties—he was even invited to attend Prince William’s wedding to Kate Middleton in 2011, ten years after his retirement.
Recognition for His Service and Charity Work
Throughout his career, Craker earned recognition for his unwavering service.
He was appointed a Member of the Royal Victorian Order by the late Queen Elizabeth II and was made a Freeman of the City of London.
After retiring from his royal duties, he became involved in charitable work, including his role as a trustee for Always Bee You, a charity that supports individuals with learning disabilities and mental health issues.
Remembered for His Warmth and Service
Craker was also a valued volunteer at the Southern Maltings creative center in Ware, where he was affectionately referred to as “our very own James Bond” by the organization.
His colleagues there described him as someone who would go above and beyond to ensure that everything was in order, even when there wasn’t an event happening.
They fondly remembered his laugh, his warmth, and his selfless desire to help others.
In a heartfelt tribute, they expressed their sorrow, saying, “Our broken hearts go out to his family and everyone who knew him.
RIP Crackers, we’ll make sure you are remembered behind the bar and will raise a glass for you this evening.”
A Legacy of Dedication and Love
To those who knew him, Graham Craker will always be remembered as more than just a bodyguard.
He was a loyal protector, a dedicated friend, and a warm presence who touched the lives of everyone he encountered.
His legacy will live on in the memories of the royal family, the many people he helped, and the family and friends who will forever hold him dear.
