Prince William and Prince Harry are mourning the loss of their uncle, Lord Robert Fellowes, who played a significant role in the royal family as Queen Elizabeth II’s top aide. He passed away on July 29, 2024, at the age of 82 from “undisclosed causes,” according to The Times.
Fellowes was married to Princess Diana’s sister, Lady Jane Fellowes, in 1978, becoming an integral figure in the lives of William and Harry. During his years as the Queen’s private secretary from 1990 to 1999, he helped navigate the royals through tumultuous times, including familial divorces and the tragic fire at Windsor Castle.
Tina Brown, in her book The Palace Papers, described Lord Fellowes as a constant in the boys’ upbringing, hosting them at family gatherings and helping keep Diana’s memory alive within the family. He had been part of royal life since his birth in 1941 at Sandringham, where a young Princess Elizabeth was present.
In a noteworthy moment during the aftermath of Princess Diana’s death in 1997, Fellowes was at the forefront of handling the crisis, arranging for Diana’s body to be transported discreetly to the mortuary. He faced intense scrutiny and challenges, including a heated exchange with then-Prince Charles.
Fellowes’ career marked him as a loyal servant to the Queen, though he later faced difficulties within royal circles after Diana’s passing. Despite the challenges, the Queen honored him with a life peerage in 1999 for his long service.
He attended the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2020, showing his continued connection to the royal family. As the funeral arrangements unfold, it remains to be seen whether both William and Harry will attend, especially given their current relationship dynamics.