Relationships within the English Royal Family have historically been complex and, at times, tense: among its members, there are personal differences and disagreements that often become public. These family dynamics affect both the private lives and official responsibilities of the monarchy’s members. In this context, the figure of Lord Robert Fellowes stands out, who kept a relevant role for many years.
Lord Robert Fellowes, maternal uncle of Prince William and Prince Harry, passed away in July 2024 at the age of 82. He was a key figure in the British Royal Household for decades, serving as private secretary to Elizabeth II between 1990 and 1999. After his official retirement, he remained linked to the monarchy as an additional equerry until his passing.
| en.elcierredigital.com, Europa Press
The fortune and the will
Lord Fellowes’s will, dated June 2012 and authorized for execution in May 2025, has revealed surprising details. His fortune, valued at nearly 1.75 million euros, was bequeathed entirely to his wife, Baroness Jane Fellowes. Additionally, he left donations for family members, friends, and several charitable institutions, but neither William nor Harry appear as beneficiaries.
Among the beneficiaries are his three children: Alexander, Laura, and Eleanor, who along with the baroness acted as executors of the will. People like Andrew Grange and organizations such as Tapping House hospice, the Rhodes Trust, St Mary’s church, and Eton College also received sums of money. In the will, Lord Fellowes requested that his estate be used “for the advancement and general benefit” of his family.
The funeral and the distance between brothers
Despite not being beneficiaries, William and Harry attended the funeral at St Mary’s church in Snettisham, Norfolk. However, witnesses reported that the brothers did not exchange words during the event and sat on opposite sides of the church. A source described this scene as “sadly symbolic of the distance between them.”
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Words from the reverend
Reverend Dan Tansey, in charge of the service, commented: “It was a pleasant surprise that both came, perhaps less unexpected in William’s case, but equally significant.” He added that at the end, both thanked him for the service and that, at the subsequent reception, the atmosphere was relaxed and cordial.
| en.elcierredigital.com, Europa Press
Lord Fellowes’s affection
Tansey assured that Lord Fellowes “was very fond of” his nephews and would have greatly valued their presence on such an important day. The absence of Princes William and Harry in the will adds another chapter to the complex family relationship experienced by the sons of Diana of Wales. The distance between them continues to be a subject of public attention and analysis by royal experts.