The Palace confirmed that Her Royal Highness passed away peacefully last night, September 4, at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family. It is with deep sorrow that Buckingham Palace announces the death of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent. The Palace said: “It is with deep sorrow that Buckingham Palace announces the death of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent. Duchess of Kent has died aged 92 “Her Royal Highness passed away peacefully last night at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family. It will be the first Catholic funeral service held for a member of the royal family in modern British history.