The Princess of Wales’ absence was notable, given that other dignitaries’ spouses were present for the religious ceremony.

In 2023, William traveled solo to Kuwait to pay his respects following the death of Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah. When he was a Prince, Charles attended a number of state funerals or mourning ceremonies alone on behalf of his mother Queen Elizabeth, including that of the previous Pope John Paul II in 2005.

Kate Middleton is not expected to join her husband, Prince William, at Pope Francis’ April 26 funeral. Per Vanity Fair, Kensington Palace confirmed that the Prince of Wales will attend the Pope’s funeral at St.