Queen Elizabeth II was affectionately known by an uncommon nickname within her closest family circle—“Jemima.” This intimate moniker was given to her by her cousin and trusted confidante, Lady Elizabeth Anson, herself a prominent socialite born at Windsor Castle in 1941 and goddaughter to King George VI.
Royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith reveals that Lady Elizabeth, affectionately called “Liza,” was a significant figure in the Queen’s private life. Following the deaths of Princess Margaret and the Queen Mother in 2002, Liza and the Queen grew especially close. The two maintained a heartfelt connection through weekly phone calls and private dinners, sharing conversations that few others were privy to.
The cousins had special nicknames for one another—Queen Elizabeth called Liza her “number one lady,” while Liza called the Queen “Jemima.” Though Lady Elizabeth never fully explained why she chose this nickname, sources suggest it carries a beautiful meaning. “Jemima,” of Hebrew origin, is traditionally interpreted as “dove,” symbolizing peace, purity, and hope—qualities befitting the late monarch.
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Beyond their personal bond, Lady Elizabeth was known as an exceptional party planner, orchestrating elegant gatherings for the Queen, other royals, and celebrities alike. Sadly, Lady Elizabeth passed away in November 2020 at age 79, just under two years before the Queen’s own passing at 96.
In her later years, Liza meticulously documented conversations with the Queen, including candid thoughts about family dynamics. In particular, she shared the Queen’s feelings surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s departure from senior royal duties in 2020. Liza recalled the Queen expressing worry, saying, “My Jemima is very worried,” and confessing she was “not at all content” with the situation.
Additionally, it was reported that the Queen disapproved of Meghan’s wedding dress, describing it as “flamboyant” and inappropriate for a divorcee—a remark reflecting the monarch’s traditional views.
Since stepping down, Harry and Meghan have resided in the United States with their children, Archie and Lilibet, Meghan’s birthplace. Though the couple returned for the Queen’s funeral in 2022, Meghan has not since returned to the UK. Harry has cited security concerns following a legal battle over his reduced personal protection, which he ultimately decided not to pursue further.
The intimate nickname “Jemima” offers a glimpse into the Queen’s private world, emphasizing the enduring bonds and personal connections that sustained her throughout her reign.