In a somber turn of events, the British royal family is mourning the loss of Robert Fellowes, the uncle of Prince William and Prince Harry and brother-in-law to the late Princess Diana.
Fellowes passed away on July 29 at the age of 82, as confirmed by an obituary in The Times on July 31. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Robert Fellowes was born in 1941 on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, where his father, William, served as the longtime land agent.
Educated at Eton, Fellowes joined the Scots Guards before embarking on a notable career within the royal household. His journey with the royals began in 1977 when he started as an assistant private secretary to Queen Elizabeth.
Over the years, he climbed the ranks, becoming deputy private secretary in 1986 and ultimately private secretary in 1990.
Fellowes played a crucial role in supporting the Queen during some of the most challenging periods in recent royal history.
He was instrumental in navigating the fallout from the 1992 Windsor Castle fire, the public scrutiny following the divorces of three of the Queen’s children, and the tragic death of Princess Diana in 1997. Notably, he suggested that Queen Elizabeth and then-Prince Charles pay tax on their private incomes, a move that was seen as an effort to modernize the monarchy’s financial transparency.
His influence extended to the delicate handling of Princess Diana’s death. Fellowes backed the decision to have representatives from Diana’s charities walk behind her coffin instead of soldiers, honoring her philanthropic legacy. He also helped the Queen draft a heartfelt speech to the nation, addressing them “as your Queen, and as a grandmother,” in response to criticism for remaining at Balmoral Castle after Diana’s passing.
Fellowes married Lady Jane Spencer, Princess Diana’s elder sister, in 1978. Together, they had three children: Laura, Alexander, and Eleanor. His passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from family members. Charles Spencer, the 9th Earl Spencer, expressed his deep sorrow, calling Fellowes “a total gentleman” and a man of “humor, wisdom & utter integrity.”
Beyond his royal duties, Fellowes held significant positions in the private sector, including as chairman of Barclays Private Bank and as a privy counselor. He also chaired the Prison Reform Trust, reflecting his commitment to public service.
King Charles, visibly affected by the news, is reportedly in a state of shock. The depth of his grief is a testament to the close bond shared between Fellowes and the royal family. Fellowes’ contribution to the monarchy and his personal ties to its members have left an indelible mark.
As the royal family and the nation mourn this loss, the legacy of Robert Fellowes as a dedicated public servant and a beloved family member endures. His passing not only marks the end of an era but also underscores the profound connections within the royal family.
