Queen Camilla has withdrawn from attending the historic funeral of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, after being diagnosed with acute sinusitis, Buckingham Palace said Tuesday, raising questions about her ability to take part in this week's state visit by President Donald Trump.
The funeral, a Catholic Requiem Mass at London's Westminster Cathedral, marked the first time in modern British history that a member of the royal family has been honored with such a service. The Duchess of Kent, who died Sept. 4 at age 92, was a practicing Catholic and a passionate advocate for music education.
"With great regret, Her Majesty The Queen has withdrawn from attendance at this afternoon's Requiem Mass for The Duchess of Kent as she is recovering from acute sinusitis," Buckingham Palace said in a statement. "Her thoughts and prayers will be with The Duke of Kent and all the family."
Camilla, 78, had traveled from Scotland earlier Tuesday and is now resting at Windsor Castle, where she is expected to prepare for a demanding schedule of engagements. A palace source said she remains "hopeful" she will be well enough to attend the state visit's events, which begin Wednesday at Windsor Castle with a welcome ceremony for Mr. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump.
King Charles, who is continuing treatment for cancer, led the royal family at the service alongside Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales. After the service, the Duchess's coffin was taken by hearse to the Royal Burial Ground at Frogmore in Windsor. Flags were flown at half-mast at all royal residences.
The funeral was preceded by a solemn vigil on Monday night, when the Duchess's coffin was moved from her private chapel at Kensington Palace to Westminster Cathedral, accompanied by a piper from the Royal Dragoon Guards, for which she served as Deputy Colonel-in-Chief. Members of the royal family including the Duke of Kent, Lady Helen Taylor, Prince Michael of Kent and Lady Gabriella Kingston attended the rites.
Camilla's absence comes at a sensitive moment for the monarchy, with Charles balancing treatment and official duties. She is due to play a prominent role during the Trumps' visit, including riding in a carriage procession and attending a lavish state banquet. On Thursday, she is expected to host the First Lady for a tour of the Royal Library and Queen Mary's Dolls' House.
Last year, Camilla was forced to cancel several engagements due to a chest infection. Her current illness has prompted palace aides to carefully manage both her and Charles's schedules during the high-profile state visit.
