Buckingham Palace released a formal statement this morning, delivered personally by His Royal Highness Prince William, The Duke of Cambridge, announcing the peaceful passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Katharine, The Duchess of Kent. The Duchess, 92, passed away earlier this morning at Kensington Palace surrounded by her family.
In an address that was both deeply personal and respectful of her service, Prince William paid tribute to his great-aunt-by-marriage, noting her quiet dedication to the arts, music, and her lifelong work helping underprivileged children. A Life of Quiet Service and Cultural Patronage Born Katharine Worsley, she married Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, in 1961.
Throughout her decades of service, the Duchess distinguished herself as a champion of music and education. She was the long-standing President of the Royal Northern College of Music and spent years working discreetly as a primary school music teacher under the name “Mrs. Kent,” a role she cherished deeply. Royal Princess Apparel Prince William highlighted this private dedication in his statement: “The Duchess of Kent embodied grace and commitment.
