DEVASTATING BREAKING NEWS JUST 20 MINUTES AGO!
London, December 24, 2025 – In a somber announcement released just minutes ago, Buckingham Palace has confirmed the death of His Royal Highness Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, at the age of 90. The Duke, a first cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II and one of the most senior members of the British Royal Family, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by close family members.
The official statement from the Palace reads: “It is with profound sadness that His Majesty The King announces the death of his beloved cousin, His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent. The Duke passed away peacefully this morning at Kensington Palace. The King and The Queen, along with the entire Royal Family, are deeply grieving this immense loss and extend their heartfelt thoughts to the Duke’s children, grandchildren, and extended family.”
The news has sent shockwaves across the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, with flags lowered to half-mast at royal residences, including Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, and Balmoral. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer issued a statement shortly after the announcement, saying, “The Duke of Kent dedicated his life to public service, embodying duty, grace, and unwavering commitment to the Crown and the nation. His passing marks the end of an era, and he will be sorely missed by all who knew him or were touched by his work.”
Who is the Duke of Kent? Everything we know as royal turns 90 today | Royal | News | Express.co.uk
A Life of Unwavering Duty
Born on October 9, 1935, at 3 Belgrave Square in London, Prince Edward George Nicholas Paul Patrick was the eldest son of Prince George, Duke of Kent, and Princess Marina of Greece and Denmark. Tragically, his father died in a military plane crash in 1942 when Edward was just seven years old, thrusting him into the role of Duke of Kent at a young age. He was a grandson of King George V and Queen Mary, making him a direct link to the heart of the Windsor dynasty.
Educated at Eton College and later at the Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland, the Duke pursued a military career, serving with distinction in the Royal Scots Greys. He retired from active service in 1976 with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel but continued to represent the Crown in ceremonial roles. Over the decades, he became known as one of the hardest-working royals, undertaking hundreds of engagements annually well into his later years.
The Duke’s patronages spanned over 140 organizations, reflecting his broad interests. He served as President of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (Wimbledon) for many years, presenting trophies at the iconic tournament. His support for the Scout Association, where he was long-time President, inspired generations of young people. Other causes close to his heart included cancer research, the arts, and military charities, particularly those supporting veterans.
In 1961, he married Katharine Worsley at York Minster in a ceremony attended by the global elite. The couple had three children: George, Earl of St. Andrews; Lady Helen Taylor; and Lord Nicholas Windsor. They also welcomed several grandchildren, with whom the Duke shared a close bond. Despite personal challenges, including family health issues, the Duke maintained a dignified public presence, often stepping in for senior royals during periods of absence.
Who Is the Duke of Kent? – Facts and Information About Prince Edward
Tributes Pour In from Across the Globe
Reactions to the news have been swift and emotional. King Charles III, who was informed personally earlier today while at Sandringham, is said to be “devastated” by the loss of his cousin, with whom he shared a lifelong friendship. The Prince and Princess of Wales released a statement: “The Duke of Kent was a pillar of strength for the Royal Family and the nation. His quiet dedication and kindness touched countless lives. We join the nation in mourning.”
Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted: “A true gentleman and servant of the Crown. The Duke of Kent’s legacy of duty will endure forever. Rest in peace, Your Royal Highness.”
International leaders have also paid tribute. Commonwealth nations, where the Duke undertook numerous tours, highlighted his role in strengthening ties. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau noted, “His visits to Canada fostered deep bonds, and his commitment to youth and service will never be forgotten.”
Social media has been flooded with messages from the public, many recalling personal encounters with the Duke at events or his warm demeanor during walkabouts. One viral post read: “Met the Duke of Kent once – he remembered my name years later. A true royal in every sense.”
Period of Royal Mourning Declared
Buckingham Palace has announced a period of royal mourning, lasting until after the funeral. Members of the Royal Family will wear black armbands for public engagements, and military personnel on duty will follow suit. Details of the funeral, expected to be a ceremonial event at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor, will be released in the coming days. It is anticipated that senior royals, including the King, Queen, and Prince of Wales, will attend, alongside representatives from the Duke’s many patronages.
Books of condolence have been opened online via the royal website, and physical books will be available at royal residences starting tomorrow. The public is encouraged to leave floral tributes at designated areas outside Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace.
Duke of Kent facts: Prince Edward’s relationship to the King, age, wife, net worth… – Smooth
Reflections on a Remarkable Legacy
The Duke of Kent’s passing comes at a poignant time, just days before Christmas, a season he cherished with his family. At 90, he was the oldest male member of the extended Royal Family and one of the last direct links to the era of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.
His life exemplified the post-war generation of royals who adapted to a changing world while upholding traditions. From attending the coronation of his cousin Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 to supporting King Charles through recent challenges, the Duke remained a steadfast figure behind the scenes.
Historians note that his longevity in service rivaled that of his late cousin, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. “He was the epitome of quiet service,” said royal biographer Ingrid Seward. “Never seeking the spotlight, but always there when needed.”
As Britain pauses to reflect on this loss during the festive season, the Duke’s motto of duty above all resonates deeply. His contributions to charity, sport, and international relations have left an indelible mark.
The nation mourns not just a royal, but a devoted public servant whose life was defined by grace, resilience, and an unshakeable sense of responsibility.
Previous: At my husband’s funeral, my daughter looked me straight in the eyes and said in front of the entire family, “You should be the one lying in the coffin, not Dad.”
Next: “I WASN’T REPLACED — I CHOSE MY FREEDOM.” Meghan Markle once framed her exit as a triumph. Inside the Palace now, it reads more like a retreat. Because as Meghan reasserts her narrative from California, Zara Tindall has moved in without noise, without drama — and without apology, quietly absorbing the responsibilities Meghan abandoned. No speeches. No self-pity. Just steel. Then came the sentence that cut deepest, delivered with surgical calm: “Some of us don’t flee duty — we shoulder it.” Royal insiders say the comparison is brutal and unavoidable — one woman walked away demanding validation, the other stayed and earned it in silence. A senior royal analyst didn’t mince words: “Freedom is easy. Service is hard. Zara chose the harder path — and the Palace rewarded her for it.”
Reflections on a Remarkable Legacy
The Duke of Kent’s passing comes at a poignant time, just days before Christmas, a season he cherished with his family. At 90, he was the oldest male member of the extended Royal Family and one of the last direct links to the era of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.
His life exemplified the post-war generation of royals who adapted to a changing world while upholding traditions. From attending the coronation of his cousin Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 to supporting King Charles through recent challenges, the Duke remained a steadfast figure behind the scenes.
Historians note that his longevity in service rivaled that of his late cousin, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. “He was the epitome of quiet service,” said royal biographer Ingrid Seward. “Never seeking the spotlight, but always there when needed.”
As Britain pauses to reflect on this loss during the festive season, the Duke’s motto of duty above all resonates deeply. His contributions to charity, sport, and international relations have left an indelible mark.
The nation mourns not just a royal, but a devoted public servant whose life was defined by grace, resilience, and an unshakeable sense of responsibility.Previous: At my husband’s funeral, my daughter looked me straight in the eyes and said in front of the entire family, “You should be the one lying in the coffin, not Dad.”
Next: “I WASN’T REPLACED — I CHOSE MY FREEDOM.” Meghan Markle once framed her exit as a triumph. Inside the Palace now, it reads more like a retreat. Because as Meghan reasserts her narrative from California, Zara Tindall has moved in without noise, without drama — and without apology, quietly absorbing the responsibilities Meghan abandoned. No speeches. No self-pity. Just steel. Then came the sentence that cut deepest, delivered with surgical calm: “Some of us don’t flee duty — we shoulder it.” Royal insiders say the comparison is brutal and unavoidable — one woman walked away demanding validation, the other stayed and earned it in silence. A senior royal analyst didn’t mince words: “Freedom is easy. Service is hard. Zara chose the harder path — and the Palace rewarded her for it.”
