The Prince and Princess of Wales have issued a heartfelt tribute following the death of the Duchess of Kent, the Royal Family’s eldest member and a much-loved public figure for more than six decades.
Buckingham Palace confirmed the news “with deep sorrow” on Friday morning, announcing that the Duchess “passed away peacefully last night at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family.” She was 92.
Flags at royal residences across the country, including Buckingham Palace, have been lowered to half-mast, and a period of mourning will continue until the funeral, the details of which are yet to be announced.
A life of service and music
Prince William and Princess Kate were among the first royals to pay tribute, describing the Duchess as someone who “worked tirelessly to help others.” Their statement highlighted her long dedication to service and her passion for charitable causes, particularly music education.
“She will be a much-missed member of the family,” they said, emphasising her lifelong support for young people and the arts.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also paid his respects, praising the Duchess for bringing “compassion, dignity and a human touch to everything she did.”
King Charles released an official statement on behalf of the Royal Family, joining the Duke of Kent—Katharine’s husband of more than 60 years—and their children and grandchildren in mourning her loss. “We remember fondly the Duchess’s lifelong devotion to the organisations with which she was associated, her passion for music and her empathy for young people,” the King said.
A royal of quiet distinction
Born Katharine Worsley in 1933, the Duchess of Kent married Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, a first cousin of Queen Elizabeth II. Her life in the public eye was marked by both dedication and quiet independence.
Perhaps best known to the public for her appearances at Wimbledon, she presented trophies for many years, famously consoling a tearful Jana Novotná after her defeat in the 1993 final.
Her personal journey also set her apart within the monarchy. In 1994, she converted to Catholicism, becoming the first member of the Royal Family to do so in more than 300 years. Later, she stepped away from high-profile royal duties and worked as a primary school music teacher in Hull, where she was known simply as “Mrs Kent.”
Royal mourning
In keeping with tradition, the Palace has posted the announcement of her death on the gates of Buckingham Palace. Troops on public duties will wear black armbands, and members of the Royal Family are expected to appear in dark clothing throughout the mourning period.
The Duchess’s death comes during a busy period for the monarchy, with a state visit by President Trump on the horizon and Prince Harry expected to return to the UK next week for charity events.
Yet for now, attention remains fixed on honouring the Duchess of Kent: a woman remembered not only for her public service, but also for her warmth, empathy, and enduring passion for music.