On September 4, the United Kingdom bid farewell to Catherine Worsley, Duchess of Kent, who passed away at the age of 92. She was considered the oldest member of the royal family after the death of Elizabeth II, and her passing was a significant moment for the entire monarchy. The funeral ceremony was held at Westminster Abbey, the traditional venue for the most important state and dynastic events.
The funeral procession was led by King Charles III, despite the absence of Queen Camilla, who was unable to attend due to health reasons. Among the guests were the Prince and Princess of Wales, Princess Anne and her husband, and Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson. Early in the morning, the Duke of Kent arrived, leaning on a cane, followed by representatives of related branches of the dynasty: the Dukes of Gloucester, Prince Michael of Kent with his family, Lady Gabriella, and Lord Frederick Windsor.
The press paid particular attention to Princess Kate, who strictly observed mourning etiquette. She appeared in an elegant black Catherine Walker coat dress, complementing the look with a hat with a veil and classic shoes. The look was completed with drop earrings and a pearl necklace from Queen Elizabeth II’s collection. The set was similar to the one Kate wore at Prince Philip’s funeral, but this time she chose a different hat and accessories.
The Duchess’s farewell became the talk of royal circles all day long: some recalled her modesty, others her long years of service to the monarchy. Readers can only join in the discussion: what does the passing of the last representative of the older generation of the family symbolize for you?
