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In a moment of deep sorrow, Prince William and Prince Harry are mourning the loss of Graham Craker, the devoted former royal bodyguard who was a constant presence during one of the most difficult chapters of their lives—the death of their beloved mother, Princess Diana.

Graham, who was affectionately nicknamed “Crackers” by the young princes, passed away at the age of 77. He was a dedicated and loyal protector who served the royal family for 35 years, including 15 years as a royal bodyguard. His commitment to the safety and well-being of the royal children made him a beloved figure in the lives of Prince William and Prince Harry, particularly during their formative years, when they faced some of their darkest moments.

Prince William and Prince Harry are mourning the loss of their childhood bodyguard (Credit: SplashNews)

Graham Craker’s role in the lives of the young princes cannot be overstated. One of the most significant moments he shared with them was on the fateful day of Princess Diana’s death. In August 1997, when the news of Diana’s tragic accident in Paris reached Balmoral, Scotland, where the royal family was vacationing, Graham was by the boys’ side. He was among the first to break the devastating news to them. He later shared in an interview that he had crept down to the phone to contact the Buckingham Palace office to confirm the reports, only to be told that Dodi Fayed had died and Diana had sustained a broken arm. However, the news quickly turned even more devastating as the extent of Diana’s injuries became clear.

Graham recalled the profound sadness and disbelief he felt in those moments, but also the immense responsibility he felt in comforting the two young princes. “It was disbelief, really, and obviously a great deal of sorrow,” he said. “You try and deal with it as best you can but you do get quite emotional about it.” His presence in those early hours of grief was invaluable to the royal brothers, and it forged an enduring bond between the two young men and their protective bodyguard.

Graham was in the hearse carrying Diana’s coffin after her funeral (Credit: Photo by Shutterstock)

In the aftermath of Diana’s tragic death, Graham remained by the side of Prince William and Prince Harry, offering both support and a sense of stability during a tumultuous period. He walked behind Diana’s coffin during the funeral procession from St James’s Palace to Westminster Abbey in September 1997, alongside the princes and their father, Prince Charles. His steady presence was a comforting constant during those emotionally charged moments. Additionally, Graham was a part of the small group that accompanied Diana’s body to its final resting place at Althorp House, ensuring her journey was as dignified as possible.

During an interview, Graham reflected on a particularly emotional moment when he spoke with Prince William the morning after Diana’s death. He described seeing William walking his dog, and after offering his condolences, William had quietly acknowledged him, saying, “Thank you.” Graham later described the brief exchange as a deeply emotional experience, marking a poignant moment in their shared grief.

In a 2017 interview with The New York Post, Graham reflected further on the impact of that tragic day and his role in supporting William and Harry. He recalled walking behind the hearse with the princes and how, in that moment, William looked up at him, and the two shared a silent moment of understanding. “William was comforted I was with his mum on her final journey,” Graham said. His devotion to the princes and their family was unwavering, and his gentle, reassuring presence in their lives remained a constant source of support.

After his retirement in 2001, Graham continued to serve his community, volunteering for local charities in Ware, Hertfordshire. His commitment to giving back to others reflected the same sense of loyalty and service that he had shown to the royal family throughout his career. Despite stepping away from the public eye, he remained a beloved figure, especially to those who knew him in his capacity as a protector of the young royals.

In his memoir, “Spare”, Prince Harry also reflected fondly on his memories of Graham, recalling their affectionate nickname for him—”Crackers.” Harry described how Graham had been there not only for the tragic funeral of Princess Diana but also during lighter moments, such as accompanying the young princes to Alton Towers theme park in 1994. These moments of lightheartedness provided the boys with a sense of normalcy, even during difficult times.

For both William and Harry, Graham Craker was more than just a bodyguard. He was a protector, a confidante, and a source of comfort during a time of unimaginable loss and upheaval. His passing marks the end of an era for the royal brothers, who undoubtedly share a profound bond with the man who was by their side during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

Graham’s loyalty and dedication to his role earned him the prestigious Member of the Royal Victorian Order. He received this honor for his years of service to the royal family, particularly in his role as a bodyguard to the young princes. His legacy of service and kindness will be remembered by all who knew him, including the royal family, who will likely feel his absence deeply.

As the world learns of Graham Craker’s passing, there is no doubt that both Prince William and Prince Harry are experiencing a profound sense of loss. While the public may know Graham for his role as a royal bodyguard, for the princes, he was a steady and compassionate presence during some of the most formative moments of their lives.

In his later years, Graham chose to live a quieter life, continuing his service to others through charity work. But his legacy as a protector of the royal family—especially William and Harry—remains as strong as ever. His passing marks the loss of a cherished member of the royal family’s extended circle, a man who played an invaluable role in the lives of two princes who would one day carry the weight of the monarchy on their shoulders.

As the royal family continues to navigate the challenges of public life and personal loss, it is clear that Graham’s influence and support will never be forgotten. The bond he shared with the princes is one that transcends his role as a bodyguard—it was one of friendship, trust, and unwavering loyalty. And that, perhaps, is the most lasting legacy of all.