The Duchess of Kent, closely associated with Wimbledon and secretly teaching music at a primary school, has passed away at 92, Buckingham Palace announced on Friday.
Katharine Worsley, known for her musical talents, was born into a noble family in Yorkshire, northern England.
In 1961, she married Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, a first cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II, who continues his royal duties at 89.
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The couple lived separate lives without divorcing and have three surviving children.
“With deep sorrow, Buckingham Palace announces the passing of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent,” stated the royal family.
“The king, queen, and all royal family members join the Duke of Kent and his family in mourning, cherishing her lifelong dedication to various organizations, her musical passion, and her empathy for youth,” it added.
The duchess, who embraced Catholicism in 1994, became the oldest royal family member after Elizabeth’s passing in 2022.
Famous for presenting Wimbledon trophies, she consoled Jana Novotna after her 1993 loss to Steffi Graf.
She spoke openly about her depression after a miscarriage due to rubella and a subsequent stillbirth.
Music Educator
After reducing her royal engagements in 2002, she quietly taught music for 13 years at a state school in northeastern England, known only to the headteacher.
“There was no publicity — it just worked,” she told the Daily Telegraph in 2022.
The duchess passed away on Thursday evening at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family, Buckingham Palace confirmed.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised her “compassion, dignity, and human touch.”
“For years, she was one of our most dedicated royals, supporting our late Queen Elizabeth II.
“Her anonymous work as a music teacher in Hull reflected her modest nature,” he added.
The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, honored her as “an advocate for children and youth welfare,” who “inspired generations of young musicians.”
The Union Jack at Buckingham Palace was lowered to half-mast in respect.
