Princess Diana of Wales (July 1, 1961 - August 31, 1997)

In August 1997,
At a Parisian site,
Fate thrust the world to mourn -
Just past the stroke of midnight.

A beautiful princess at soaring height,
Suddenly lost her earthly light.
Sunday ended her mortal plight -
She breathed her last, and then took flight.

A kindly woman - full of life.
A doting mother, and longing wife.
Her adorable sons, two young lads,
Were left, solely, In care of their dad.

The world noted the touch of her hand -
The generous heart she shared with man.
Heads of state, moved with tears,
Honored the Princess' fruitful years.

America, France, Africa too,
Reflected upon the Diana they knew.
She touched lepers, which royals forbade.
Embraced the homeless and victims of AIDS.

An image of beauty. A charming dove.
A woman of courage. A token - beloved.
In the eyes of children, Diana stood tall.
She won their hearts, and loved them all.

With plenty to offer, she traveled a lot:
‘Twas everywhere. Then, she was not.
A pilgrimage came day and night
With oceans of gifts for tribute sites.

They stood for hours In sorted lines,
To leave expressions In books signed.
On September 6, fans of Di
Flooded the UK for a final goodbye.

The jammed cortege was over three miles:
Kensington to Abby. At Saint James she'd lie.
Many knew her, and many did not,
But all mourned the fate of her lot.

Cher'shed impressions upon the world.
A legacy of hope by a British girl.
A precious jewel… a towering steeple.
Forever the "Princess of the People."
© August 1997 walterrean salley

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Endnote: Celebrating the 25th anniversary of Princess Diana's death.

© 2022 Walterrean Salley