The Prince and Princess of Wales mourn death of royal family member following passing at Kensington Palace

The Prince and Princess of Wales paid tribute to the Duchess of Kent following the royal family member’s death. Their Royal Highnesses shared a personal message on social media Friday, stating that the late Duchess “will be a much missed member of the family.”

“Our thoughts today are with The Duke of Kent and his family, particularly George, Helen and Nicholas. The Duchess worked tirelessly to help others and supported many causes, including through her love of music. She will be a much missed member of the family,” Prince William and Catherine said, signing the message with “W& C.”‘

Buckingham Palace announced the Duchess of Kent’s passing on Sept. 5. She was 92. “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 palace said in a statement. “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.”

Funeral details will be released in due course. King Charles, who was at Balmoral when he was informed of the Duchess’ passing, has approved that royal mourning should take place until the day of the funeral inclusive. 

© Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images

The Duchess of Kent was born on February 22, 1933. She was married to Queen Elizabeth‘s first cousin the Duke of Kent. The pair, who met while the Duke was based at Catterick Camp Army base in Yorkshire, were married on June 8, 1961 at York Minster. The Duke and Duchess have three children: George, Earl of St Andrews, Lady Helen Taylor and Lord Nicholas Windsor.

© Instagram/amelwindsor

Following the death of her grandmother, Lady Amelia Windsor, the 30-year-old daughter of George Windsor, Earl of St Andrews, shared a throwback photo of the Duchess on her personal Instagram Story with a simple red heart emoji.

The Duchess of Kent became a working member of the British royal family following her marriage, and in 1977, she was created a Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order. In 2002, she stepped aside as a working member of the royal family to focus on her private and charitable work in the music sector.