Katharine, Duchess of Kent, dies aged 92

September 5, 2025 – Buckingham Palace has confirmed the death of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, the oldest member of the Royal Family. She was 92 years old.

In a statement, the palace said the Duchess “passed away peacefully last night at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family.”

Katharine was married to Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, who is the cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Oldest member of the Royal Family

After the Queen’s death in September 2022, Katharine became the oldest living royal. She carried that title until her passing.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla, who are at Balmoral, have been informed. The King has approved a period of Royal Mourning until the day of her funeral.

Life and marriage

Born Katharine Worsley in 1933, she came from a Yorkshire family that owned large estates. She joined the Royal Family in 1961 after marrying Prince Edward.

Their wedding took place at York Minster Cathedral, with Princess Anne as a bridesmaid and the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles attending the ceremony.

The couple went on to have three children. They also suffered the heartbreaking stillbirth of another child in 1977.

Royal work and private life

Katharine spent many years supporting royal events and charities. She was especially passionate about children’s welfare and music.

In 2002, she stepped away from public duties and chose to live a quieter life. She later became a school music teacher, known simply as “Mrs. Kent” to her students.

Remembered with affection

The Royal Family’s statement paid tribute to her compassion and long service.

It said: “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 organizations with which she was associated, her passion for music and her empathy for young people.”

Katharine is survived by her husband, the Duke of Kent, 89, their sons George Windsor (Earl of St Andrews) and Lord Nicholas Windsor, and daughter Lady Helen Taylor.