She died peacefully at home on Thursday, aged 92, Buckingham Palace said. Her Royal Highness passed away peacefully at Kensington Palace this morning, surrounded by members of her family. Her death is being keenly felt by members of the royal family and the public, leading to an unprecedented display of grief.
In the early 1960s, Katharine entered the British royal family upon her marriage to Prince Edward, Duke of Kent. He is a first cousin once removed of the late Queen Elizabeth II. In addition to her contributions through her philanthropy, throughout her life she was an active member of many charitable and civic organizations. She used her platform to promote opportunities in the arts, especially music, and to fight for the next generation of young people.
The Duchess frequently attended prominent royal events. During the opening days of the Wimbledon tennis championships, she would routinely assume her seat in the Royal Box. She marked victories by awarding brass torches to the various winners. Equally remarkable, though, was her consolation of the runners-up, revealing her compassion and display of sportsmanship.
Other royal events
In addition to her representation at Wimbledon, Katharine was involved with several other high-profile royal appearances. Perhaps most famously, though, she made her entrance at Royal Ascot in an open-topped, horse-drawn carriage with the late Queen Mother on June 21, 1989. She attended thousands of royal family events, including being a regular presence at official public celebrations on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.
Katharine’s devotion to public service didn’t stop at royal engagements. Following this, she retired from public life as a working royal in 2002. Though she never remarried, she remained energetic and involved in her charitable pursuits, even late in life. Her passion for music brought joy to thousands, but it’s perhaps her deep sense of understanding for young people that made her a cathartic and welcoming figure.
The Duke of Kent and their three children—George, Helen, and Nicholas—grieve the loss of his beloved wife. We have been heartened by the King and Queen’s, and the whole royal family’s, sincere acknowledgement of our grief. Along with the stories, they spoke lovingly about Katharine’s steadfast commitment to service.
“Her Royal Highness passed away peacefully last night at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family.” – Buckingham Palace
“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.” – Buckingham Palace
The Duke of Cambridge, now Prince William, and his wife, the new Kate, Princess of Wales, expressed their sympathies. They added, “Our thoughts today are with The Duke of Kent and his family, especially George, Helen and Nicholas.”
