Sarnia's Mayor says Queen Elizabeth II demonstrated the "epitome of service over self."
Mike Bradley spoke with Sarnia News Today on Thursday after the world received word that the longest-serving British monarch and Canadian head of state had died at the age of 96.
"She has so many different admirers here, across the country and around the world because of that dedicated service and because of her ability through many, many, challenges over the years and decades to be a very strong leader," Bradley said.
He said Queen Elizabeth's stability will be her legacy, because she was there for the commonwealth and for Britain when needed.
"Once word was received, the flag at Sarnia City Hall was lowered and other flags in the city family will also be lowered. We will wait to get our guidance from the Federal Government on the period of time of mourning and see if there's any other steps we can take as a community to recognize the passing of someone who has had an impact on the lives of so many different people around the world."
Mayor Bradley said the queen visited the City of Sarnia 63 years ago.
"The queen came here in July, 1959 on the Royal Yacht Britannia with Prince Philip and there are still people to this day that remember that visit. We only had a population of about 50,000 at the time, but there were over 100,000 people here at Canatara Park and Norm Perry for that visit."
"Earlier this year, we celebrated with people the queen's anniversary, the Jubilee, and there's still a great deal of respect for the monarchy in the community because of the queen. It will be interesting to see the transition, but this is a day to recognize her service and her contribution to the world."
Elizabeth marked seven decades on the throne this year.
She started handing over duties in recent months to Charles, and other members of the Royal Family, as she struggled to get around.
A book of condolences will be set up in the lobby of Sarnia City Hall for residents to sign from Monday, September 12 to Friday, September 16.
Flags are at half-mast at City facilities to mourn the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
— City of Sarnia (@Sarnia_Ontario) September 9, 2022
Over 70 years she served as Canada’s head of state, our longest reigning sovereign.
A book of condolences will be set up in City Hall lobby for residents to sign from Sept. 12 to 16 pic.twitter.com/TBsdgprhGf