Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit, known for her grace and influence on the country’s monarchy, has passed away at the age of 93, as announced by the Thai Royal Household bureau over the weekend. Since suffering a stroke in 2012, Sirikit had withdrawn from public view.

The Queen Mother, married to King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Thailand’s longest-reigning monarch, played a significant role alongside him for seven decades, engaging in charitable endeavors that endeared them to the people. Renowned for her elegance and fashion sense, she captured international attention during their travels abroad.

Born in 1932 during Thailand’s transition to a constitutional monarchy, Sirikit Kitiyakara, daughter of Thailand’s ambassador to France, led a privileged life. Her meeting with Bhumibol in Paris, where they fell in love despite an initial dislike, led to their engagement in 1949 and marriage in Thailand a year later.

Recognized for her stylish collaborations with renowned designers like Pierre Balmain, Sirikit revitalized Thailand’s silk industry by promoting traditional weaving practices. She actively participated in development projects for rural communities, often accompanying the king on visits to remote villages.

Following Bhumibol’s passing in 2016 and King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s ascension to the throne in 2019, Sirikit was formally titled the Queen Mother. While the Thai monarchy traditionally remains apolitical, Sirikit occasionally engaged in activities perceived as political, including supporting movements that influenced government changes.

Sirikit’s legacy of charity and maternal virtue resonates with many Thais, and her passing will be deeply respected in a nation where criticism of the royals is restricted by strict laws. She is survived by her son, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, and three daughters.