The Royal Family gathered yesterday to pay their respects at the funeral of the Duchess of Kent, and the atmosphere was a mixture of mourning and subtle tension.
While many royals engaged warmly with one another, Prince Andrew’s presence was marked by noticeable distance and restraint from some family members, including his nephew Prince William and even the King himself.
Prince Andrew’s Awkward Stand
The Duke of York lingered at the doorway of Westminster Cathedral as others moved ahead to offer their goodbyes.
Despite his attempts at light conversation and pleasantries, it was clear that engagement with him was limited.
Historical controversies surrounding his ties to Jeffrey Epstein continue to cast a shadow over his public and private interactions, even six years after stepping down from official royal duties.
According to lip reader Jacqui Press, Andrew’s remarks included polite observations like “It was a beautiful service” and “Aren’t we lucky with the weather today,” but they were met with minimal response.
Tense Interactions with William
Body language experts observed a “very frosty” exchange between Prince Andrew and Prince William.
William’s gestures—avoiding eye contact, rubbing his nose, and shifting his stance—suggested awkwardness and a desire to politely reject conversation.
Meanwhile, Andrew attempted to draw attention, smiling and leaning in for acknowledgment, yet received only brief nods in return.
Judi James, a body language expert, described Andrew’s expression as a “smug-looking smile” as he sought a mirrored response from William, who remained distant and composed.
Moments with Other Family Members
While interactions with William were tense, Andrew shared lighter moments with his ex-wife, Sarah, Duchess of York, exchanging jokes and laughter.
He also thanked staff and spoke briefly with his sister, Princess Anne, before departing.
The service itself included personal touches: three of the Duchess’s grandchildren—Lady Marina-Charlotte Windsor, Eloise Taylor, and Albert Windsor—read the Prayer of the Faithful.
The choir and organist of Westminster Cathedral performed choral pieces, including Mozart’s Ave verum corpus, chosen by the Duchess herself.
A piper played the Scottish lament “Sleep, Dearie, Sleep”, a tune also featured at Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral.
A Ceremony of Quiet Reflection
The funeral marked the first royal Catholic requiem mass in modern history, reflecting the Duchess’s quiet devotion and kindness.
Cardinal Vincent Nichols, leader of the Roman Catholic Church in England and Wales, praised her humility, empathy, and lifelong dedication to service.
“She was a down-to-earth woman who served others without seeking attention,” he said, recalling her charitable work and personal moments of compassion, like comforting Wimbledon finalist Jana Novotna.
Royal Attendance and Farewells
Other royals in attendance included Prince Andrew, Sarah Ferguson, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, Prince Michael of Kent, and Lady Gabriella Windsor.
Queen Camilla was absent due to acute sinusitis, but the rest of the family honored the Duchess with a dignified, solemn ceremony.
The Duke of Kent followed the coffin closely, supported by family members, including his daughter Lady Helen Taylor and sons Earl of St Andrews and Lord Nicholas Windsor, reflecting the poignant and respectful atmosphere of the day.