Bucks County Coroner Witnesses Coronation Of King Charles III

WARMINSTER, PA —The term coroner holds special significance to Meredith Buck.

While she has held that position in Bucks County for the past three years, she also has a fondness for its name —because it originated in England.

In British history, the coroner is an official responsible for safeguarding the property of the Crown, quite different than Buck's role where she investigates sudden, unexplained or violent deaths.

The Warminster-based coroner knows a thing or two about British history. She's witnessed it firsthand, including last Saturday's coronation of King Charles III. See photos below.

Buck joined two friends to watch as the successor to Queen Elizabeth II was crowned and dressed in full regalia during the service at London's Westminster Abbey.

"They are celebrations," Buck told Patch about her time at the coronation. "This is history in the making."

Buck has seen it before.

She was on hand for the Queen's Jubilee in June 2022, as Queen Elizabeth II became the first British monarch to celebrate a platinum jubilee, marking her 70 years of service to the country. The queen died a few months later.

Buck also witnessed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in April 2011.

"I've come very close to them," Buck said. "I've seen Kate Middleton up close and personal."

History and Tradition

Buck has spent time over the years in England soaking up the history and tradition of Great Britain.

As a nurse and attorney, Buck has spent time at the Middle Temple, one of the four Inns of Court. She's been involved in a mentoring program with the American Inns of Court.

Buck has visited England four times over the years and even took a class there.

She marveled at the Queen.

"I had great respect for the queen and her demeanor," Buck said. "She ruled without a heavy hand for a long time."

While seeing the coronation, Buck said it didn't feel the same as past events. For one thing, it rained. And for another, she said that the coronation "wasn't as festive, happy or welcoming."

"It was not the same," she said. "It felt like it was almost mandatory."