A long-serving royal decorator has died after more than three decades of work at the Sandringham estate, where he was widely respected for his craftsmanship and dedication.
Chris Eadie, 63, spent over 30 years working for the royal household, serving during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and later under King Charles III. He was found dead at his home in Norfolk, a death later examined at Norfolk Coroner’s Court.
According to his brother, Mark Eadie, Chris took enormous pride in his work and was known for his meticulous attention to detail. He described him as a perfectionist who would not sign off on a project unless it met his own high standards.
“My brother was absolutely brilliant at his job,” Mark said. “He was loyal and deeply committed to the royal family. He never really talked about his work, but I know he painted William and Catherine’s bedroom and even met their children once in the garden. He said they were lovely.”
Mark explained that Chris was later asked to repaint a pagoda at Sandringham, covering a Buddha and using colours requested by the King. Although he personally felt the colours were “a bit garish,” he carried out the work as instructed. However, the finished result was reportedly not well received, and the job was reassigned to another contractor.
After weeks of detailed preparation, being replaced on the project had a lasting effect on him. “He was devastated,” his brother said.
In the weeks that followed, Chris’s mental health appeared to decline. He became withdrawn, lost his appetite, and was increasingly anxious about his health, fearing he may have been seriously ill.
The inquest heard that these struggles unfolded quietly, despite his strong work ethic and long record of service. Chris Eadie is survived by his two sons.
