Bucking Palace has issued a statement announcing the death of a senior royal.
The palace has announced the death of a senior member of the Royal Family.
The royal died peacefully on Thursday evening (September 4) at her Kensington Palace home, surrounded by her family.
In 2002, she gave up her full-time royal duties and her HRH title to pursue a life away from the spotlight.
Katherine, the Duchess of Kent, is survived by her husband, Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, and their three children.
Buckingham Palace said in a statement: “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.”
It continued: “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.”
Flags on public buildings have been lowered to half-mast.
The Duchess of Kent’s cause of death is yet to be confirmed.
Royal engagements are likely to continue, although households will consider the ‘format and tone’ during the period following the death of the 92-year-old.
People on social media have sent their condolences to the family.
One said: “My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Royal Family during this time of mourning.”
Another added: “Very sad to hear this. Sending love to all those who have loved her.”
“Wonderful woman, such an elegant and gracious lady, may she RIP,” a third noted.
As another user commented: “This is such sad news, she was the epitome of style and grace, such a warm, loving woman, thoughts and prayers are with her family.”
Details of the Duchess of Kent’s funeral will be announced in the coming days, and Buckingham Palace will inform the public which members of the Royal Family will attend the funeral, likely to include a large number of senior and non-working royals.
Prince Harry will be over in the UK for the WellChild Awards on September 8, and may well extend his trip in order to attend the funeral.
