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Buckingham Palace has confirmed the passing of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, at the age of 92. The Duchess, wife of Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, was the oldest living member of the Royal Family following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022.
A statement from the Palace read:
“It is with deep sorrow that Buckingham Palace announces the death of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent. Her Royal Highness passed away peacefully last night at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family. The King and Queen and all Members of The Royal Family join The Duke of Kent, his children and grandchildren in mourning their loss and remembering fondly The Duchess’s life-long devotion to all the organisations with which she was associated, her passion for music and her empathy for young people.”
Born in 1933 at Hovingham Hall, North Yorkshire, Katharine descended from Oliver Cromwell. She met her future husband Prince Edward while he was stationed with the army at Catterick Garrison, and the couple married in 1961. Princess Anne served as one of her bridesmaids. Together, they had three children: George, Earl of St Andrews, Lady Helen Taylor, and Lord Nicholas Windsor.
The Duchess made history in 1994 when she became the first senior royal to convert to Catholicism since 1701, with the approval of Queen Elizabeth II. Her conversion did not affect her husband’s position in the line of succession.
Known for her dedication to music, youth causes, and charitable work, the Duchess gradually stepped back from royal duties in 2002. She made her last major public appearance at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018.
Her life was not without personal heartbreak. In 1975, she gave birth to a stillborn son due to complications from Rubella, later recalling the experience as one of the most devastating of her life.
Katharine’s legacy remains one of quiet dignity, compassion, and service.
