Buckingham Palace has announced the death of the Duchess of Kent at the age of 92.
Katharine, who became the oldest living member of the Royal Family following Queen Elizabeth II’s passing in 2022, chose to relinquish her HRH title, preferring to be known simply as Mrs. Kent. She stepped back from royal duties to dedicate over a decade to teaching music at a primary school in Hull.
In a statement released on Friday, the Palace said:
“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, along with all members of The Royal Family, join The Duke of Kent, his children, and grandchildren in mourning their loss and fondly remembering The Duchess’s lifelong dedication to the organizations she supported, her passion for music, and her empathy for young people.”
Following the announcement, the Union Flag at Buckingham Palace was lowered to half-mast as a mark of respect. A formal framed notice will also be displayed on the palace railings.
Katharine married Prince Edward, Duke of Kent — cousin to the late Queen Elizabeth II — in a grand ceremony at York Minster in 1961. The couple had three children: George, Earl of St Andrews, Lady Helen Windsor, and Lord Nicholas Windsor.
