Content warning: This article may be triggering for some readers.
The British royal family has farewelled Thomas Kingston in an emotional funeral service, held in the Chapel Royal at St James’ Palace.
A congregation of 140 friends and family members paid their respects, including Prince William, the Duke of Kent, and Princess Alexandra.
Following the one-hour service, a private cremation took place. No details have been shared regarding Thomas’s final resting place.
A larger-scale memorial service will reportedly be held in honour of Thomas in due course.
WATCH NOW: The Prince and Princess of Kent arrive at the coronation of King Charles III. Article continues after video.
Thomas’ widow Lady Gabriella is the second-born child of the Prince and Princess of Kent. Through her father, the late Queen Elizabeth is Gabriella’s great-aunt.
A statement released by Gabriella and her in-laws on February 27th 2024 confirmed the sad news that Thomas passed away.
“It is with the deepest sorrow that we announce the death of Thomas Kingston, our beloved husband, son, and brother.
“Thomas was an exceptional man who lit up the lives of all who knew him.
“His death has come as a great shock to the whole family, and we ask you to respect our privacy as we mourn his passing.”
According to first responders, Thomas passed away at his parents’ home in Gloucestershire on Sunday, February 25th.
Emergency services were reportedly called to the private residence shortly after 6pm that day after his unresponsive body was found.
An inquest has since confirmed his cause of death was due to a “catastrophic head injury,” and that “a gun was present at the scene”.
Police are also satisfied that the death is “not suspicious”.
Upon hearing the news, King Charles and Queen Camilla shared their most “heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Gabriella and to all the Kingston family”.
“The King and The Queen have been informed of Thomas’s death and join Prince and Princess Michael of Kent and all those who knew him in grieving a much-loved member of the family,” a palace spokesperson also shared on behalf of Their Majesties.
Just two weeks prior, Thomas and Gabriella joined the Queen at a Shakespeare event held in London.
Thomas previously dated Pippa Middleton for an undisclosed period before meeting Lady Gabriella.
They became engaged in August 2018 and wed at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle on May 19th, 2019.
Gabriella and Thomas had no children together and were due to celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary this year.
If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, help is always available. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit their website here.
