Margaret Thatcher Dies: Heads of State Mourn
Britain's Iron Lady, Margaret Thatcher, passed away on April 8, 2013 from complications due to stroke.
Britain's only female Prime Minister and person to hold this office longest (1979-1990) in the 20th Century, will be honored in a ceremony at St. Paul's Cathedral. A list of 2,500 attendees has been released and reads like a “who's who” of political and famed individuals.
Among the list of attendees are all living American ex- and current presidents, including Barack and Michelle Obama, Bill and Hillary Clinton, George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, and Jimmy Carter.
Lady Thatcher had many famous friends, as well as stars whom she admired, including Dame Shirley Bassey of Goldfinger fame. Tony and Cherie Blaire were quick to confirm attendance, as well as seeming political foes Lord Heseltine and Lord Howe. Former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev graciously passed on his invitation, due to health concerns, but sent his regards.
The Queen, Royal family, and Prince Philip will be there, along with a long list of family friends and persons close to Lady Thatcher.
A strict dress code will be enforced with men to wear "full dress ceremonial without swords" if appropriate, otherwise morning dress with black waistcoat and black tie or a dark suit. Women should wear a day dress with hat."
Arrangements for the funeral service (aptly code-named Operation True Blue) will be announced as soon as possible.
How do you feel about large public funeral arrangements, especially those of a public or figure head? Do you feel a display of this magnitude is appropriate?
