Title: Virginia Ogilvy, Queen Elizabeth II's American-born Lady-in-Waiting, Passes Away at 91

Virginia Ogilvy, the Countess of Airlie, known for her decades-long service to Queen Elizabeth II, passed away on August 16 at her Scottish estate in Cortachy. She was 91, as confirmed by her daughter, Lady Elizabeth Baring. Ogilvy, the only American-born member of the queen's inner circle, the ladies-in-waiting, had a remarkable 50-year tenure in this role.

A Lasting Influence

Ladies-in-waiting, a tradition tracing back to the Middle Ages, involve various duties, including planning, correspondence, and household administration. However, the primary responsibility lies in being a trusted confidante to the queen, requiring discretion, an ear for gossip, and a keen awareness of the monarch's desires and needs. Typically, this role is reserved for peers, as it is an honorary position with no salary or benefits. Lady Ogilvy's husband, David, the Earl of Airlie, shared a longstanding friendship with Queen Elizabeth since their childhood, and the couple was a prominent part of her social circle. Their close association with the queen culminated in Lady Ogilvy assuming her position in the royal household in 1973, followed by her husband taking up the role of Lord Chamberlain of the Household, overseeing the queen's domestic affairs after a successful career in banking.

An Era of Service

The news of Virginia Ogilvy's passing has been met with great sorrow, marking the end of an era of dedication and loyalty to the British monarchy. Her contributions as a ladies-in-waiting have left an indelible mark on the royal household.