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Katharine, the Duchess of Kent -- a member of the British Royal Family -- has died ... according to an official statement from Buckingham Palace.

The family announced the news on X ... writing Katharine passed away at Kensington Palace in London near Hyde Park last night. She was surrounded by friends and family, the statement adds.

The statement ends with King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla , as well as all other members of the family, joining "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."

Katharine -- a descendant of controversial British historical figure Oliver Cromwell

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