Royal family announces death of Queen's beloved father

Queen Mary of Denmark has announced that her 'beloved' father, John Donaldson, has died aged 84.

The Danish royals shared the announcement on its social media handle, saying “The Queen’s Father has passed away.”

The announcement reads, “It is with great sorrow that the Queen announces that her father, Professor John Dalgleish Donaldson, has died in Hobart, Tasmania. He was 84 years.”

The statement by the Queen says: “My heart is heavy, and my thoughts are grey. My beloved father has passed away. But I know that when the grief settles, the memories will brighten my day, and what will remain strongest is love and gratitude for everything he gave me and taught me.”

As per details, Professor John Donaldson’s health had been declining over the past few years.

The Queen last visited her father at the end of March, where they shared precious time together.

John Donaldson was a Professor of Applied Mathematics, born in Scotland on September 5, 1941.

The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date.

Fans and friends dropped heartbreaking messages after the palace confirmed the news with one saying, “My deepest condolences to you and your family. A blessing you could spend some more time with him.”

“It is wonderful to think that Mr Donaldson could spend time with the Queen during her recent visit. A loss of a parent is losing part of your heritage. May he RIP,” the other said.