Sir Christopher Airy, once the private secretary to King Charles and Princess Diana, died on 7 April 2025. He passed away, ironically, from an injury sustained in a fall, at the age of 91. Airy was born on 8 March 1934 at the Queen Elizabeth Military Hospital in Woolwich. He spent most of his life serving the public and the British Army. He passes from this world a mighty legacy characterized by his unrivaled military successes. Moreover, early on he had a very short-lived but memorable career inside the royal household.
Airy was the second son of Lieutenant-Colonel Eustace Airy and Enid (née Burnside). As one of only three children in his family, he began his military career commissioning into the Grenadier Guards. At first deployed to 3rd Battalion at Chelsea Barracks, he then served in Windsor on public duties. Through the decades, he climbed the organizational ladder, each step showcasing his unparalleled leadership and devotion. His military service culminated in 1982 when he was promoted to major general. During that year, he served as Assistant Chief of Staff of UK Land Forces, and subsequently commanded the Queen’s Company of the 1st Battalion.
A Distinguished Military Career
Sir Christopher Airy’s career was notable for great accomplishments inside the British Army. After a year’s command of the Queen’s Company, he was promoted Major General Commanding the Household Division and GOC London District. His understanding of military strategy and operations brought him national acclaim. In recognition of this, he was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1984 and subsequently a Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (KCVO) in 1989.
While serving in military posts, Airy took on leadership roles in civilian organizations. In 1990, he accepted an invitation to be Private Secretary and Treasurer to Charles, Prince of Wales. He accepted the blame for Princess Diana. Regrettably, his time in this role was cut short, lasting less than a year. It highlighted his versatility and public service chops.
A Legacy Beyond Royal Service
Having left the royal household, Sir Christopher Airy became chief executive for the British Heart Foundation. There, he became a leading force in health advocacy and left an indelible mark on local charitable initiatives. It was in this new role his leadership skills and military experience shone most brightly. Those same skills allowed him to be a faired-in champion on the opposite stage.
In his private life, Airy married Judith (Judy) Stephenson in 1959. Sadly, she predeceased him by three months. Together, they raised three children—two daughters and a son—all of whom survive him. His family continue to honor him as a passionate, devoted father. They celebrate his character and appreciate the contributions he made to his nation and his local area.
