Disgraced royal makes rare public appearance at Duchess of Kent’s funeral

17 Sep 2025 • 5:40 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • A requiem mass was held at Westminster Cathedral for the Duchess of Kent, marking the first Catholic funeral for a member of the royal family in modern British history.
  • The King, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and other members of the royal family attended the service, with the Duke of Kent leading the mourners.
  • The Queen was absent from the funeral, having withdrawn due to acute sinusitis, raising questions about her attendance at US president Donald Trump's upcoming state visit.
  • The Pope sent a message, delivered during the mass, praising the Duchess of Kent's "legacy of Christian goodness" and "dedication to official duties".
  • The disgraced Duke of York made a rare appearance with his ex-wife, Sarah, Duchess of York, and was seen attempting to speak with Prince William after the service.

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