Duchess of Kent dies at 92: Royal who chose life of service

A well-known member of the British royal family, Katherine, Duchess of Kent, has passed away at the age of 92. 

She was surrounded by her loved ones at the time of her death. Despite her royal status, she lived life on her own terms, balancing duty with her passion for music and education.

Early Life and Education

Born on February, 22, 1933, Katherine pursued music and French at Queen's College, Oxford. She was a skilled pianist, organist, and violinist before beginning her career as a teacher in London.

Her deep love for music inspired her to co-found the charity, Future Talent , which supports aspiring musicians from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

Marriage into the Royal Family 

At 24, Katherine met Prince Edward, Duke of Kent. Their engagement was announced on 8 March, 1961, and they married at York Minster on 8 June the same year.

Among her bridesmaids were Princess Anne an Lady Jane Spencer, the eldest sister of Princess of Wales, Diana.

The wedding was attended by the Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip, the Queen Mother and royals from across Europe.

Family Life: 

The Duke and Duchess welcomed three children: George, Earl of St Andrews, in (1962), daughter Lady Helen Tylor (1964), and Lord Nicholas Windsor (1970). 

She later became grandmother of 10 grandchildren, including fashion model Lady Amelia Windsor. 

Royal and Recognition

Katherine was often named among the best-dressed in the UK and abroad. She also became familiar face at Wimbledon, presenting trophies during her husband's presidency of the All England Club. 

She served as President of NCH Action of Children, and Macmillan Cancer Relief, and the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester for 35 years.

Breaking Royal Traditions

in 1996, the Duchess made headlines when she stepped away from official royal duties and dispensed with her HRH title, She later converted to Catholicism, becoming the first senior royal to do so in  more than 300 years.