Prince Harry and William's former bodyguard dies
On the day of Princess Diana’s funeral, Craker walked behind the hearse alongside William and Harry as it carried her body from St James’s Palace to Westminster Abbey.
Graham Craker, the former royal bodyguard who stood by Princes William and Harry during the darkest chapter of their young lives—the death of their mother, Princess Diana—has passed away at the age of 77.
Known for his steady presence and quiet strength, he was more than just a bodyguard—he was a constant figure of support, especially during the emotionally harrowing days following Diana’s tragic death in 1997.
Craker was with the boys at Balmoral Castle in Scotland when the devastating news broke. The young princes were staying there with their father, then-Prince Charles, and their grandparents, Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh.
It was Craker who had the impossible task of helping shield William and Harry as they processed the loss that would change their lives forever.
In a 2017 interview with the New York Post, Craker reflected on that painful morning.
“Perhaps the most emotional was seeing William the morning after,” he said. “I saw him walking his dog and said, ‘I’m very, very sorry to hear your bad news.’ William very sadly said, ‘Thank you.’” It was a brief exchange, but one that captured the shared grief between protector and princes.
Craker’s duty didn’t end with just physical protection—it extended into moments of profound emotional support.
On the day of Princess Diana’s funeral, Craker walked behind the hearse alongside William and Harry as it carried her body from St James’s Palace to Westminster Abbey.
He recalled how William, in a moment of quiet connection, looked up at him during the procession.
“I was standing at the rear of the hearse, and William looked up and acknowledged me. I looked toward him and nodded,” Craker said. “William was comforted that I was with his mum on her final journey.”
Craker retired in 2001 but remained a cherished part of the royal household’s history.
His loyalty, discretion, and compassion left an indelible mark—not just on the institution, but on the hearts of the two boys he helped guide through unimaginable loss.
His passing marks the end of a chapter, but his legacy will live on in the memories of those he quietly served with dignity and devotion.