The death of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, on September 4, 2025, marked the passing of a respected member of the British royal family who was admired for her devotion to public service, her love of music, and her quiet yet lasting influence. As the royal family and the public prepare for her funeral, one notable absence has been confirmed: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, will not attend the service.
While Prince Harry was recently in the United Kingdom and Ukraine for charitable engagements, he has since returned to California, where he lives with his wife, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and their two children. According to reports from People and other reputable outlets, Harry privately extended his condolences to the Duchess of Kent’s family after her passing.
The Passing of the Duchess of Kent
Katharine, Duchess of Kent, passed away on September 4 at the age of 92. Buckingham Palace publicly confirmed her death the following day. Married to Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, who is a first cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II, she held a respected place within the royal family.
Her funeral service is scheduled to take place at Westminster Cathedral on Tuesday, September 16, and will be significant as the first Catholic funeral for a senior member of the British royal family in modern times. Members of the royal family, including King Charles III and Queen Camilla, are expected to attend.
Prince Harry’s Recent Travel and Engagements
The Duke of Sussex, who turned 41 on September 15, was in Europe during the days following the Duchess of Kent’s passing. His schedule included attending the 2025 WellChild Awards in London on September 8, an annual event supporting a children’s charity with which he has been associated for many years.
Shortly afterward, Harry traveled to Kyiv, Ukraine, on September 12 to highlight humanitarian and demining initiatives. The visit was documented by Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and emphasized his ongoing commitment to charitable causes, particularly those related to veterans and communities affected by conflict.
Although his travels brought him close to the royal family geographically, Harry returned to the United States before the funeral events for the Duchess of Kent were set to begin.
Private Condolences
While Prince Harry will not attend the funeral in person, reports confirm that he privately sent his condolences to the Duke of Kent and their family. The Duchess of Kent held a special place in Harry’s personal history, as she attended his 2018 wedding to Meghan Markle at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor.
Her long life of service, coupled with her distinct role as one of the few royals to embrace the Catholic faith, made her a figure of quiet influence. For Harry and Meghan, who have maintained ties to family members in the U.K. despite their move abroad, her passing is another moment of reflection within the evolving dynamics of the monarchy.
Meghan Markle’s Acknowledgment of Harry’s Return
On September 14, Meghan acknowledged her husband’s return to California with a celebratory post on the Instagram account for her lifestyle brand, As Ever. The post featured a photo of a glass of wine with the caption, “When your beau is back in town,” highlighting Harry’s homecoming ahead of his birthday.
The couple marked Harry’s 41st birthday privately, just a day before the funeral of the Duchess of Kent was set to take place in London.
The Legacy of Katharine, Duchess of Kent
Born Katharine Worsley in 1933, the Duchess of Kent married Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, in 1961. She became known for her dedication to public service, particularly in education and the arts. A passionate supporter of music, she worked closely with several organizations to expand access to musical training for young people.
In 1996, the Duchess of Kent stepped back from public royal duties and began a quieter life, focusing on personal pursuits. In 2002, she requested to be known simply as Katharine, Duchess of Kent, dropping the style of “Her Royal Highness.” Despite stepping back, she continued to attend significant family events, including the weddings of younger royals such as Prince Harry and Meghan in 2018.
She is survived by her husband, Prince Edward, their three children—George Windsor, Earl of St Andrews; Lady Helen Taylor; and Lord Nicholas Windsor—and 10 grandchildren.
A Historic Funeral
The funeral of the Duchess of Kent will be remembered as a historic moment for the British monarchy. Taking place at Westminster Cathedral, the service will be the first Catholic funeral for a member of the royal family in centuries.
The Duchess converted to Catholicism in 1994, a personal decision that reflected her faith and beliefs. While members of the royal family are traditionally part of the Church of England, her conversion underscored her individuality and commitment to her spiritual life.
The funeral events began on Monday, September 15, with the arrival of her coffin at Westminster Cathedral for a private vigil attended by her immediate family. On Tuesday, September 16, the official service will bring together senior members of the royal family alongside friends and dignitaries.
Prince Harry’s Relationship with the Royal Family
Prince Harry’s absence from the funeral has drawn public interest, particularly given his close connection to the Duchess of Kent through family events. However, it is important to note that Harry has maintained a pattern of balancing personal commitments with his new life in the United States.
His charitable focus remains strong, as shown by his continued work with organizations supporting children, veterans, and global humanitarian causes. His decision not to attend the funeral reflects logistical and personal considerations, but his private condolences demonstrate respect for the Duchess of Kent and her family.
Conclusion
The funeral of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, represents both a moment of mourning and a historic chapter for the British royal family. As a woman who combined royal duty with personal conviction, her legacy continues through her contributions to education, music, and faith.
Prince Harry’s absence from her funeral does not diminish the respect he has shown through private condolences. His recent commitments in the United Kingdom and Ukraine, followed by his return to California, highlight the balance he maintains between his roles as a public figure, family man, and global humanitarian.
While Harry will not be among those attending the Catholic service at Westminster Cathedral, the Duchess of Kent’s life and contributions will be honored by the royal family, the nation, and all who valued her decades of quiet dedication.