LONDON — Prince Philip, husband to Queen Elizabeth II, and the longest-serving consort of any British monarch, has died at age 99.

A statement posted on the royal family’s website Friday morning said: “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

“His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle. Further announcements will made in due course. The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.“

Philip spent 65 years supporting the queen, retiring from his public role in 2017 and staying largely out of the view since. During his operative years, he helped set a precedent for the monarchy under a young queen, championing Britain itself, as well as environmental causes, technology and science.

The arduously private prince will likely be remembered for his early efforts to help modernise the royal family’s image and reputation during a time of immense change for Britain and the world, especially at the outset of Elizabeth’s reign in 1952. He also developed a reputation for the occasional brusque comment and crass, if not racist jokes.

Prince Philip’s care and concern for the youth inspired him to create the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, and he supported more than 800 charities and good causes .

Since the 1940s Prince Philip was an ever present figure in the life of the UK and leaves behind his own legacy.