PHOENIX — David Wimberley said Queen Elizabeth II was always Great Britain’s best representative to the world.
Britain’s longest-reigning monarch and a rock of stability across much of a turbulent century, died Thursday after 70 years on the throne. She was 96.
"It’s a sad day for everyone from our country," Wimberley told 12News after news that the queen had died.
Wimberley is from England. He also owns George & Dragon: An English Pub in central Phoenix.
"She’s the longest-running Monarch," he said. "She’s probably one of the most respected Monarchs in the world. Everyone who ever met her just loved her. Doesn’t matter what party you are from, everyone loved the Queen."
Wimberley and his mother, Anne, had a dream to open up an English pub in Phoenix after moving here from across the pond. On February 15, 1995, that dream became a reality.
Wimberley said George and Dragon will offer the Queen’s favorite drink, Dubonnet and Gin, on Thursday, and plans to be open the day of the Queen’s funeral for anyone who wants to gather and watch – no matter what time the funeral takes place.
Wimberley said the pub usually doesn’t carry Dubonnet but, oddly, received a shipment the other day.
George and Dragon is located at 4240 N Central Ave. in Phoenix.
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