Eleven days after her death was announced, the Duchess of Kent will be laid to rest in Windsor. The funeral for the Duke of Kent's wife, who converted to Catholicism in 1994, will mark the first royal Catholic funeral in modern history. The funeral plans reflect the late Duchess' wishes and were put together with the support of the royal household.
Ahead of her funeral service, the Duchess’ coffin will rest in the private chapel at Kensington Palace. Then on the eve of the Requiem Mass, Her Royal Highness’ coffin will be taken to Westminster Cathedral, where the Rite of Reception and Vespers will take place. While the guests for the funeral service include members of the royal family, the Duchess’ family, friends in addition to representatives of Her Royal Highness’s charities and regimental affiliations, the Rite of Reception and Vespers will be attended by only the Duchess’ immediate family.
The Duchess of Kent, wife of Queen Elizabeth's first cousin, passed away earlier this month at Kensington Palace. Buckingham Palace announced her death on Sept. 5 with a statement that read: "It is with deep sorrow that Buckingham Palace announces the death of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent. Her Royal Highness passed away peacefully last night at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family. 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."
From the location to the guests, here is what we know about the Duchess of Kent's funeral.
When is the Duchess of Kent's funeral?
The private service is taking place on Tuesday, Sept. 16.
Where is the Duchess of Kent's funeral taking place?
As a Roman Catholic, it was the Duchess' wish to have her funeral at Westminster Cathedral, which will be the first royal funeral to be held there since its construction in 1903.
Where will the Duchess of Kent be buried?
After the Requiem Mass, the Duchess' coffin will be taken by hearse to the royal burial ground at Frogmore, Windsor.
Will King Charles and Queen Camilla be at the Duchess of Kent's funeral?
Their Majesties, as well as other members of the royal family, will join the Duke of Kent and members of the Duchess’s family at the Requiem Mass.