Buckingham Palace Shares Striking Photo of Duchess of Kent Following Her Passing

"It is with deep sorrow that Buckingham Palace announces the death of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent," the statement read. "Her Royal Highness passed away peacefully last night at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family."

The Palace also noted her deep ties to the monarchy. Katharine was married to Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, Queen Elizabeth II’s cousin, for 64 years, and she was the oldest living member of the royal family following the Queen’s passing.

"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," the statement continued.

Katharine first met Prince Edward in 1956 while he was stationed at Catterick near Richmond, per the official royal family website. Their engagement was announced in 1961 and they were married shortly after at York Minster. Together, they had three children and ten grandchildren.

After marrying into the royal family, Katharine took on royal duties and became a quiet yet steady presence within the family. She was especially known for her longtime support of The Duke’s role with the All England Lawn Tennis Club. In fact, she famously presented the Wimbledon Ladies' Singles Trophy for years, including in 1993, when she comforted an emotional Jana Novotna after a tough loss.

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