Trang: The entire province of Trang is in mourning after the Bureau of the Royal Household announced the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. People expressed their deepest condolences and gratitude for Her Majesty's great kindness, while Trang residents expressed their heartfelt memories of Her Majesty with overwhelming loyalty.
According to Thai News Agency, the announcement by the Bureau of the Royal Household brought deep sorrow and grief to Thai citizens across the country. In Trang Province, the atmosphere was filled with grief and mourning, with people wearing black clothing to mourn and express their condolences. People also talked about Her Majesty's royal deeds.
Mr. Somboon Kanchanapirom, 61, owner of the Khieang Chuan Chim noodle shop in Trang Municipality, has over 200 portraits of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, and His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua plastered on the walls of his shop. Mr. Somboon stated that he had been collecting portraits of the Queen Mother and King Rama IX for many years. In 2017, he displayed the royal portraits at his noodle shop to commemorate the King and Queen Mother for their work for the Thai people. Upon learning of their passing, he felt profound sadness, as they were beloved by the entire nation. This loss is similar to the loss of King Rama IX in 2016, when he displayed the portraits at his shop for eight years without removing them.
Wanida Fanchian, a former employee of Siam Cement Group, shared that 40 years ago, she had the opportunity to greet Her Majesty the Queen Mother at the Suan Amporn Red Cross Fair. At the time, she was a Chulalongkorn University student, setting up stalls and holding concerts at the fair. Her Majesty the Queen Mother also frequently visited Chulalongkorn University. Upon learning of the passing of Her Majesty, she was deeply saddened by the news, as she loved her greatly. Although she has now moved her family to the United States, she continues to follow royal news.
Mr. Jirapat Kerddee, or "Ajarn Maew," a painter from Trang Province, is known for his paintings of portraits of His Majesty King Rama IX. He placed a portrait of Her Majesty the Queen Mother in front of his shop to express his condolences. Mr. Jirapat said he learned of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen Mother this morning and was deeply saddened. Both King Rama IX and Her Majesty the Queen Mother have always worked hard for their people and have been a benefactor to Thailand and the Thai people. He often draws pictures of their royal duties.