Duchess of Kent Dies at 92, Buckingham Palace Confirms

Published: 06 September ‘2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Buckingham Palace has announced with deep sorrow the death of the Duchess of Kent, who passed away peacefully at the age of 92 at her home in Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family. Known for her empathy, grace, and groundbreaking role as the first member of the British royal family in centuries to convert to Catholicism, Katharine, Duchess of Kent, leaves behind a legacy marked by compassion, dedication to public service, and a unique bond with the world of sport and music.

Born Katharine Lucy Mary Worsley on 22 February 1933 into an aristocratic Yorkshire family, she grew up at Hovingham Hall as the only daughter of Sir William Worsley and Lady Worsley. Her marriage in 1961 to Edward, Duke of Kent, grandson of King George V, took place at York Minster and was a grand royal occasion. Though they remained married for more than six decades, the couple lived much of their later lives separately, while maintaining a strong bond rooted in respect and family duty.

She gained wide public affection for her presence at Wimbledon, where her husband served as president of the All England Club for more than 30 years. One of the most iconic moments in her public life came in 1993, when she consoled Czech player Jana Novotná after her heartbreaking defeat in the Wimbledon women’s singles final against Steffi Graf. Placing her arm gently around Novotná’s shoulder as the player wept, she uttered words of encouragement: “I know you can do it.” Five years later, Novotná returned to claim the title, with the Duchess once again presenting the trophy.

Her relationship with Wimbledon was not without controversy. In 1999, she clashed with tournament authorities after being denied permission to bring into the royal box the son of murdered headteacher Philip Lawrence. Her deep empathy and instinct to comfort others often placed her at odds with protocol, but won her the respect and affection of the wider public.

In 2002, she formally stepped back from public life, choosing to drop her HRH title and asking to be known simply as Katharine or Mrs Kent. Far from retreating into seclusion, she dedicated herself to teaching music, spending over a decade working in state schools in Hull and London. She gave weekly lessons, nurtured choirs, and brought music into the lives of children, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, including pupils from Grenfell Tower. She also volunteered for the Samaritans, served as a Unicef ambassador, and in 2004 founded the charity Future Talent, which helps children from low-income families pursue musical training and opportunities.

Her spiritual journey brought her historic distinction when, in 1994, she converted to Catholicism, the first senior royal to do so in more than 300 years. This landmark decision is expected to shape her funeral, which will likely be a Catholic service held at Westminster Cathedral in the coming weeks, with Cardinal Vincent Nichols presiding. King Charles, Queen Camilla, and other senior royals are expected to attend what will be the first Catholic funeral for a royal in modern British history.

Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, Katharine became the oldest living member of the royal family. Despite her age and reduced public appearances, she remained admired for her devotion to charitable causes, her passion for music, and her deep sense of empathy for those in need.

A statement from Buckingham Palace paid tribute, saying: “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 lifelong devotion to all the organisations with which she was associated, her passion for music and her empathy for young people.”

As Britain reflects on her passing, the Duchess of Kent will be remembered not just as a royal consort, but as a woman of principle, warmth, and generosity who quietly reshaped the role of royalty through humility and service.