Princess Astrid Dies at 94 as Norway’s Royal Family Mourns Another Loss

OSLO, Norway — Princess Astrid, the elder sister of King Harald V, died on September 11, the Norwegian royal palace announced. She was 94.

Her death came two days after she attended Harald’s funeral in Oslo. The service was her last public appearance. Harald had died on August 28 at age 89, following a reign of more than 35 years. His son succeeded him as King Haakon VIII.

A Lifetime of Royal Service

Astrid assumed a leading role in public engagements when she was 22, following the death of her mother, Crown Princess Märtha. She went on to represent the Norwegian royal family for decades and devoted particular attention to the care and inclusion of vulnerable people.

King Haakon paid tribute to his aunt’s steadfast support for his father and the rest of the family. He recalled her warmth, commitment to her duties and readiness to speak openly.

The royal palace said its flag would be lowered to half-mast on the day of Astrid’s death and again for her funeral.