KATHERINE, the Duchess of Kent, has kept a low profile since stepping back from royal duties in 1992.
Here we take a look at the royal’s life, religion and family.
GettyKatharine, the Duchess of Kent, became the oldest living member of the Royal Family after Elizabeth II’s death[/caption]
Who is Prince Edward’s wife Katherine, Duchess of Kent?
Born Katharine Lucy Mary Worsley on February 22, 1933, she did not have any formal education until the age of ten.
She is passionate about the power of music and particularly the positive impact it can have on young people.
As a child Katherine learned to play the piano, organ and violin.
Katharine is married to Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent – the first cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
When did Katherine, Duchess of Kent, marry the Duke of Kent?
Katharine married Prince Edward in 1961 and became the Duchess of Kent.
The wedding ceremony took place at York Minster.
Prince Michael of Kent was the best man while Princess Anne was one of the bridesmaids.
How many children does Katherine, the Duchess of Kent, have?
The couple have three children – George Windsor, Earl of St Andrews, born June 26, 1962; Lady Helen Taylor, born April 28, 1964; and Lord Nicholas Windsor, born July 25, 1970.
In 1975 the Duchess had an abortion because of German measles.
She gave birth to a stillborn son, Patrick, in 1977.
Katherine told The Daily Telegraph in 1997: “It had the most devastating effect on me.
“I had no idea how devastating such a thing could be to any woman.
“It has made me extremely understanding of others who suffer a stillbirth.”
When did Katherine, Duchess of Kent convert to Catholicism?
The Duchess of Kent converted to Catholicism in 1994.
She received the approval of the late Queen and has said it was a personal decision.
She told the BBC: “I do love guidelines and the Catholic Church offers you guidelines.
“I have always wanted that in my life. I like to know what’s expected of me.
“I like being told: You shall go to church on Sunday and if you don’t you’re in for it!”
Where does Katherine, Duchess of Kent, live?
The Duchess of Kent lives in Kensington Palace with her husband Prince Edward.
However, they are not the only members of the Royal Family living in the palace.
Prince William and Princess Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and the Prince and Princess Michael of Kent also call the residence their home.
How old is Katherine, Duchess of Kent?
The duchess’ date of birth is February 22, 1933.
At the time of writing, she is 90 years old.
Katherine was born at Hovingham Hall in Yorkshire.
When did Katherine, Duchess of Kent, retire?
Katherine retired in 2002 after serving as a working royal for decades.
With her stepping down she gave up her Her Royal Highness title.
Since retiring, she has asked that people refer to her as Katherine rather than the Duchess of Kent.
Are the Duke and Duchess of Kent still married?
As of February 2024, the Duke and Duchess of Kent are still married.
The couple married 63 years ago on June 8, 1961 at York Minster.
It was the fist marriage there in 633 years – the last being between Edward III and Philippa of Hainault.
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