queen mary of denmark is grieving after the death of her father, John Donaldson, aged 84, with Denmark following official mourning protocol and flags flying at half-mast. Flowers have been placed outside Amalienborg Palace as citizens quietly show their condolences. A private funeral service is planned, but the schedule indicates it will not take place until after the weekend because of family commitments.
Private Service Put Off Until After The Weekend
The delay comes as the royal family prepares for an important weekend gathering at Fredensborg Palace, where Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine are set to be confirmed. That timing means the family will be balancing a solemn loss with a major personal ceremony already fixed in the royal calendar.
The week has been especially difficult for queen mary of denmark, who has no engagements until Saturday and is mourning in private. Saturday will bring together almost the entire royal family, even though the occasion is expected to carry the shadow of John Donaldson’s death.
Queen Mary’s father maintained a close relationship with his daughter and grandchildren despite a discreet public profile. The King has continued his duties during these days and has appeared at audiences at the Royal Palace.
What The Royal Household Has Confirmed
The royal household has said the funeral will be private, but no final public detail has been announced about the burial place. The uncertainty has prompted quiet speculation, though no decision has been confirmed.
Annemette Krakau, a royal expert for the Danish publication Billed Bladet, said there is a possibility that Donaldson’s remains could be laid to rest closer to Denmark. She noted that he was born and raised in Scotland, where his wife Henrietta, Mary’s mother, who died in 1997, is also buried.
John Donaldson was born in Scotland on September 5, 1941, and later built a distinguished academic career as a professor of Applied Mathematics before settling in Australia in 1963. He spent much of his life in Tasmania, but kept a deep connection to the British Highlands.
Queen Mary Of Denmark Shares A Personal Farewell
The royal family chose to let Queen Mary announce the death herself with a deeply personal message. “My heart is heavy, and my thoughts are gray. My beloved father has passed away. But I know that when the grief settles, the memories will brighten my day, and what will remain strongest is the love and gratitude for all he gave me and taught me, ” she said.
The message was paired with a photograph Mary took in Hobart on March 24, during the Danish monarchs’ visit to Australia, which was her first visit to her homeland as Queen of Denmark. After that official trip, she remained for a few more days, making the loss feel even more immediate and personal for the family.
For now, the focus remains on mourning, family, and the coming weekend’s confirmation service. The private funeral for John Donaldson is expected after that, and queen mary of denmark is likely to remain out of public view as the family moves through the next difficult days.
