Who Was Rosie Roche, Prince William And Prince Harry’s Cousin Who Died At 20?
Rosie Roche, a distant cousin of Prince William and Prince Harry, has died at the age of 20!
Rosie Roche, a distant cousin of Prince William and Prince Harry, has died at the age of 20. She was found dead at her family’s home in Norton, near Malmesbury in Wiltshire, on July 14. A firearm was discovered near her body, but police have ruled out any third-party involvement. Here’s everything you need to know about her,
Who Was Rosie Roche And How Did She Die?
The young student was reportedly preparing for a trip with friends when her mother and sister discovered her body. Authorities have classified the circumstances as “non-suspicious,” and an inquest has been opened at the Wiltshire and Swindon coroner’s court. The investigation has been adjourned until October 25.
Rosie was a granddaughter of Princess Diana’s uncle, making her a member of the extended Spencer family. She was studying English Literature at Durham University and was described as a bright, kind-hearted young woman. Her family, devastated by the sudden loss, released a heartfelt obituary in the Yorkshire Post that read:
“Roche Rosie Jeanne Burke. Died on Monday, 14th July 2025. Darling daughter of Hugh and Pippa, incredible sister to Archie and Agatha, Granddaughter to Derek and Rae Long.”
A private funeral has been arranged, and a public memorial service is expected to be held at a later date for friends and extended family.
More Details
This tragedy has brought renewed attention to another recent loss in the royal circle. In February 2024, Thomas Kingston, husband of Lady Gabriella Kingston (another cousin of William and Harry), was also found dead from a gunshot wound. In that case, an inquest later confirmed that Kingston had died by suicide.
So far, neither Rosie’s family nor representatives for Prince William have issued public statements about the tragedy. The royal household has remained silent, respecting the Roche family’s privacy during what is clearly a heartbreaking time.
First Published: July 22, 2025 12:35 PM
