Buckingham Palace has announced the death of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent, who passed away peacefully on Thursday evening (September 4) at her home in Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family.

The Duchess, who stepped back from full-time royal duties in 2002 and relinquished her HRH title in private life, was 92. She is survived by her husband, Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, and their three children.

In a statement, the Palace said:

“It is with deep sorrow that Buckingham Palace announces the death of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent. Her Royal Highness passed away peacefully last night at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family.

The King and Queen and all Members of The Royal Family join The Duke of Kent, his children and grandchildren in mourning their loss and remembering fondly The Duchess’s life-long devotion to all the organisations with which she was associated, her passion for music and her empathy for young people.”

Flags on public buildings across the United Kingdom have been lowered to half-mast. While royal engagements are expected to continue, adjustments to “format and tone” will be considered during the mourning period.

The Duchess’s cause of death has not yet been disclosed.

This is a developing story and will be updated.