TL;DR: Queen Mother Sirikit of Thailand passed away at 93 from a bloodstream infection. The nation entered a year-long mourning period, with a state funeral planned in Bangkok’s Grand Palace. Her legacy as a champion of Thai culture, rural welfare, and women’s empowerment endures.
What Happened
- Queen Mother Sirikit Kitiyakara died on October 24, 2025, at 9:21 PM local time at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok, due to complications from a bloodstream infection (sepsis) that began on October 17.
- The Royal Household Bureau announced her death early on October 25.
- King Maha Vajiralongkorn declared a one-year mourning period for the royal family and civil servants.
- A state funeral with full royal honors will be held, with her body lying in state at Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall in Bangkok’s Grand Palace.
Background and Legacy
- Born on August 12, 1932, to an aristocratic family in Bangkok, she married King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1950 and served as queen consort until his death in 2016.
- She was the mother of Thailand’s current monarch, King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X).
- Her initiatives, including the SUPPORT Foundation, promoted Thai silk, handicrafts, and sustainable rural development.
- She led numerous charitable projects through the Thai Red Cross and conservation efforts across Thailand.
- Sirikit’s birthday, August 12, is celebrated as National Mother’s Day.
Official and Public Response
- Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul canceled his ASEAN summit appearance to attend mourning ceremonies.
- Flags were lowered nationwide; public dress codes were changed to subdued attire for the mourning period.
- Mourners gathered at Chulalongkorn Hospital and the Grand Palace to pay respects.
- International condolences came from leaders and global organizations, while global outlets honored her humanitarian efforts.
Context
- Queen Sirikit was seen as an influential cultural figure who bridged tradition and modernization in postwar Thailand.
- Despite health setbacks following a stroke in 2012, she remained a symbol of maternal love and national unity.
- Her passing marks a major chapter in the history of the Thai monarchy, which continues to command deep cultural reverence.