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Queen Mother Sirikit of Thailand died Friday at 93 after developing a blood infection. For six decades she championed rural development and environmental conservation.

Though often overshadowed by her long-reigning husband, Sirikit wielded considerable influence and became a beloved symbol of motherhood, with her birthday celebrated as Mother’s Day.

Thailand declared a one-year national mourning period, with flags at half-staff and her son, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, ordering a funeral with the highest honors.

BANGKOK — Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit, who supervised royal projects to help the rural poor, preserve traditional craft-making and protect the environment, died Friday.

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