Royals' final farewell to 'dedicated Duchess'

Pope praises 'legacy of Christian goodness' but ill Camilla is unable to attend service

- By Emily Ferguson Royal Editor

THE King paid his final respects to the Duchess of Kent yesterday in the first Catholic funeral for a member of the Royal Family in modern history.

The Prince and Princess of Wales were among the mourners who filled Westminster Cathedral, and sat in the front row for the service alongside the monarch.

However, the Queen expressed her “deep regrets” at missing the requiem mass because she was recovering from an infection.

The Duke of Kent was joined by his three children and 10 grandchildren for the poignant service, which included a message from Pope Leo XIV.

The pontiff paid a personal tribute to the Duchess, praising her “legacy of Christian goodness” in a message delivered during the funeral.

Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendia, the diplomatic representative of the Holy See in the UK, the government of the Roman Catholic Church, highlighted her “dedication to official duties”.

He said: “I was saddened to learn of the death of Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Kent, and I send heartfelt condolences, together with the assurance of my prayerful closeness, to Your Majesty, the members of the Royal Family, and especially to her husband, the Duke of Kent, and their children and grandchildren at this time of sorrow.