King Charles Mourns Duchess of Kent at Historic Catholic Funeral; Queen Camilla Absent Due to Illness

King Charles Attends Duchess of Kent's Funeral; Queen Camilla Absent Due to Illness

King Charles III, along with other senior royals, attended the funeral of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, at Westminster Cathedral. Queen Camilla was unable to attend due to recovering from acute sinusitis. The service marked the first Catholic funeral for a member of the Royal Family in modern times.

Royal Family and Dignitaries Gather to Honor the Duchess

The Prince and Princess of Wales (William and Catherine), the Duke of Kent, and his children were among the mourners at the Requiem Mass. Princess Anne, Sir Tim Laurence, Prince Andrew, and Sarah Ferguson also attended. Notable figures such as actresses Maureen Lipman and Rula Lenska, and racing driver Sir Jackie Stewart were present.

The service included a message from Pope Leo, praising the duchess for her "dedication to official duties, patronage of charities and devoted care for vulnerable people." The coffin, draped in the royal standard, rested in front of the cathedral's altar, adorned with white roses in honor of the duchess's Yorkshire roots.

A Historic Royal Catholic Funeral

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who presided over the funeral service, highlighted the duchess's commitment to charitable work, particularly her volunteer work at the Passage charity for the homeless. He described her as a "very down to earth person" who wholeheartedly served people. The funeral was seen as both a historic moment and a deeply personal family occasion.

Queen Camilla's Absence and Planned State Visit

Although Queen Camilla was unable to attend the funeral due to illness, Buckingham Palace stated that she plans to participate in the state visit of President Trump, scheduled to begin in Windsor on Wednesday. Her thoughts and prayers were with the Duke of Kent and his family during the service.

Touching Moment Between King Charles and Princess Catherine After Funeral

Following the funeral, Kate Middleton shared a heartwarming moment with King Charles III. She was photographed placing her hand on his shoulder, kissing him on both cheeks, and curtsying. The King, in turn, looked at Kate, with his arm gently placed by her side, showing the affection between the King and the Princess.