Queen Camilla to miss the funeral of the Duchess of Kent after falling ill

Queen Camilla is to miss the funeral of the Duchess of Kent after developing a respiratory illness.

Her Majesty is suffering from acute sinusitis and so will not attend the Requiem Mass for the Duchess taking place on September 16 at Westminster Cathedral.

Buckingham Palace announced the absence just hours before the funeral was due to begin.

A spokesperson said ”With great regret, Her Majesty The Queen has withdrawn from attendance at this afternoon’s requiem mass for the Duchess of Kent as she is recovering from acute sinusitis. Her thoughts and prayers will be with the Duke of Kent and all the family.”

The King will still attend alongside the Prince and Princess of Wales.

The Duke of Kent and his three children as well as their families will lead mourners in remembering the Duchess.

Following the funeral, a private burial will take place at Frogmore.

The absence has also called into question whether Queen Camilla will be well enough to attend the State Visit of US President, Donald Trump, which begins tomorrow.

The Duchess of Kent died on September 4 2025 at the age of 92.