Lord Robert Fellowes, the esteemed British courtier and uncle by marriage to Prince William and Prince Harry, passed away on July 29, 2024, at the age of 82.
Fellowes, who was married to Princess Diana’s sister, Lady Jane Fellowes, held a prominent position within the royal household and was deeply trusted by Queen Elizabeth II during his tenure as her private secretary from 1990 to 1999.
Born in 1941 in Sandringham, Norfolk, Robert Fellowes’ early life was closely tied to the royal family. His father served as the land agent for the Sandringham Estate, a role that ingrained a deep connection to the monarchy from a young age. Educated at Eton College, Fellowes went on to join the Scots Guards before transitioning into the banking sector.
In 1977, Fellowes entered the Royal Household, starting as an assistant private secretary. His competence and dedication saw him rise through the ranks, becoming the deputy private secretary in 1986 and later, the private secretary to the Queen in 1990. During his time as private secretary, Fellowes played a critical role in advising Queen Elizabeth II through some of the most turbulent times for the royal family, including the divorces of three of her children and the tragic death of Princess Diana in 1997.
Charles Spencer, Diana’s brother, remembered Fellowes as a “total gentleman” and praised his “humor, wisdom & utter integrity.”
Fellowes’ influence extended beyond his official duties; he was known for his close relationship with Prince William and Prince Harry, attending both their weddings and remaining a supportive figure throughout their lives.
Fellowes’ marriage to Lady Jane Spencer in 1978 was a significant family event, with the late Princess Diana serving as a bridesmaid. The couple had three children: Alexander, Eleanor, and Laura, the latter being the godmother to Princess Charlotte. The family bond was strong, with Lady Jane Fellowes being one of the first to visit Prince Harry and Meghan Markle after the birth of their first child, Archie.
After stepping down as private secretary in 1999, Fellowes returned to private banking and was honored with the title of Baron Fellowes of Shotesham in Norfolk. Despite his departure from the royal household, he continued to serve as an extra equerry to the Queen until her death in 2022. His role as an extra equerry, though largely ceremonial, highlighted the enduring trust and respect he commanded within the royal family.
Fellowes’ portrayal in the popular Netflix series “The Crown” by actor Andrew Havill brought his influential role within the royal court to a broader audience, underscoring his significance during a transformative period for the monarchy. His contributions were not only professional but also deeply personal, offering support and stability to the royal family during times of crisis.
The news of Lord Fellowes’ passing comes at a challenging time for the royal family, with both King Charles III and Princess Kate recently undergoing cancer treatment. Plans for Fellowes’ funeral have not yet been disclosed, but it is expected to be a significant event given his close ties and contributions to the royal household.
The royal family, along with close friends and colleagues, mourns the loss of a man who not only served with distinction but also exemplified the qualities of loyalty, integrity, and compassion. His legacy within the royal household and his impact on those he served will be remembered and cherished.
