March 20, 2015

Sir Winston was suffering from circulatory problems which caused him to spend much time in bed. Lady Churchill was also in poor health and she was admitted to Westminster Hospital for rest and treatment.

“‘Remember, I would like lots of military bands at my funeral.’ He got nine!”

While both were suffering physically they learned of the death of their daughter, Diana, from an overdose of sleeping pills. Unable to attend her funeral, they both went to the Memorial Service at St. Stephen’s, Walbrook, in London.

Anthony Montague Browne, serving steadfastly as Sir Winston’s assistant, arranged for a series of dinner guests to provide the old man with company. WSC also continued to view films.

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On 28 November he was taken to the House of Commons in a wheelchair and dined that evening at the Other Club.

Montague Browne also served on a Government Committee (Operation Hope-Not) to plan for Sir Winston’s State Funeral. As he later recalled for Martin Gilbert: “WSC knew I was attending meetings of the ‘Hope-Not’ Committee but only once commented. He said, ‘Remember, I would like lots of military bands at my funeral.’ He got nine! “

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