The atmosphere was somber at Westminster Cathedral as the Royal Family gathered to pay their final respects to the late Duchess of Kent, Katharine Kent.
Amid the mourning, sharp tensions were visible between Prince Andrew and his nephew, Prince William, highlighting a complicated family dynamic even during a solemn occasion.
A Frosty Exchange Between Prince Andrew and Prince William
Body language experts noted a “very frosty” interaction between the two princes.
Prince Andrew appeared to try initiating conversation with Prince William during the service, muttering a few words.
However, Prince William gave only a brief nod in response, signaling discomfort and reluctance to engage.
Judi James, a body language specialist, described Andrew’s attempts as sporting a “smug-looking smile” while William’s gestures indicated subtle avoidance and a desire to close the interaction.
Subtle Signs of Discomfort
James explained that William’s body language—including minimal head inclination, avoidance of eye contact, and a series of small physical cues—showed he was trying to remain polite while clearly feeling uneasy.
At times, William even used gestures such as rubbing his nose and tapping his heels, which experts interpret as a way of signaling that the conversation was over.
Moments of Laughter Amid Mourning
Despite the tense exchange, other moments of levity were observed.
Prince Andrew shared a joke and laughed alongside his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, and even chuckled briefly next to Prince William, who appeared visibly uncomfortable.
These moments were a stark contrast to the otherwise solemn nature of the funeral, reminding attendees of the complex relationships within the Royal Family.
Paying Tribute to a Life of Service
The funeral celebrated Katharine Kent’s life and legacy. She passed away peacefully at home on September 4 at the age of 92.
Attendees, including King Charles, Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince Andrew, and Princess Anne, joined the service, which featured a blend of grandeur and quiet reflection.
The Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, described the ceremony as a fitting tribute, highlighting her kindness, empathy, and dedication to public service without seeking attention.
A Historic Catholic Funeral
This service marked the first royal funeral in a Catholic church in modern times, and King Charles attended Mass at Westminster Cathedral for the first time.
The ceremony included personal touches such as readings by three of the Duchess’s grandchildren and musical selections chosen by the Duchess herself, including Mozart’s Ave verum corpus.
Scottish bagpipes played a traditional lament previously featured at Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, adding a layer of poignancy to the event.
Family Presence and Support
The Duke of Kent, frail but dignified, followed his late wife’s coffin, supported by family members including his daughter Lady Helen Taylor.
Other attendees included the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, and Prince Michael of Kent with his wife, Princess Michael of Kent.
Many wore black in mourning, reflecting the deep respect and love the family had for the Duchess.
A Celebration of Kindness and Empathy
Throughout the service, speakers and attendees reflected on Katharine Kent’s compassion and devotion to helping others, both publicly and privately.
Cardinal Nichols recalled her work in hospitals and charitable endeavors, as well as moments of joy, such as her playful interactions during pilgrimages to Lourdes.
The funeral underscored a life lived with empathy, humility, and a genuine concern for the welfare of others.