Duke of Kent Faces Double Bereavement as Secretary Dies Weeks After Wife

Key points

• Nicholas Turnbull, private secretary to Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, died on September 16, 2026, at age 63.
• Turnbull is survived by his two children, Alexander, 17, and Crispin, 14.
• Prince Edward turned 91 on October 9, 2026, just weeks after the death of his wife, Katharine, Duchess of Kent, in September 2025.
• King Charles III appointed Turnbull a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order on September 14, 2026, two days before his death.
• A palace source told RadarOnline that Turnbull's death has plunged the Duke of Kent into mourning, calling it another 'devastating blow' at a time when he is still adjusting to life without his wife.
• The Duke of Kent continues to carry out royal duties, including attending Wimbledon in July 2026 and celebrating his 91st birthday at Wigmore Hall on October 9, 2026.

Background

Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, is the cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II and has been a prominent figure in the British royal family for decades. He is known for his tireless work ethic and has held numerous patronages, including serving as President of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club for over 50 years. His wife, Katharine, Duchess of Kent, died in September 2025 at age 92 after a 60-year marriage. The Duke of Kent has continued to perform public duties despite his advanced age and recent bereavements.

How outlets are covering it

RadarOnline and StyleCaster emphasize the emotional impact of Turnbull's death on Prince Edward, describing it as a 'devastating blow' and noting that the Duke is 'plunged into mourning.' A palace source quoted by RadarOnline highlighted the difficulty of losing two significant people within a year, particularly for a 91-year-old. Vanity Fair and Town & Country focus on the Duke of Kent's continued public duties and his 91st birthday, framing the losses within the context of his lifelong commitment to royal service. HELLO! Magazine notes the Duke's rare public appearance at Wigmore Hall for his birthday, attended by Lady Susan Hussey, Prince William's godmother, highlighting his resilience. The outlets generally agree on the facts of Turnbull's death and the Duke's ongoing duties, but differ in emphasis: RadarOnline and StyleCaster focus on the grief, while Vanity Fair and Town & Country emphasize the Duke's duty and resilience.

Why it matters

The death of Nicholas Turnbull highlights the personal toll of royal duties and the close-knit nature of the royal household. It underscores the vulnerability of elderly royals facing multiple bereavements and the importance of personal support systems within the royal family. The Duke of Kent's continued public appearances despite his losses reflect the expectations placed on senior royals to maintain their duties regardless of personal circumstances.

What to watch

The Duke of Kent is expected to continue his public duties, including his patronages and royal engagements. There may be further tributes or memorials for Nicholas Turnbull, though no specific events have been announced. The royal family may also observe the anniversary of Katharine, Duchess of Kent's death in September 2027.