William and Kate mourn the loss of BBC presenter Deborah James. “Our thoughts are with her children, family and loved ones.”

Prince William (40) and Duchess Kate (40) mourn the deceased Deborah James and express their condolences to the relatives.

“The heartbreaking news about Deborah James makes us sad. Our thoughts are with her children, her family and her loved ones,” write the two British royals in an Instagram story. They included the family’s post with a pretty photo of the BBC presenter from happier times in their message. The Cambridges continue: “Deborah was an inspirational and unwaveringly courageous woman whose legacy will live on.”

Deborah James died of cancer at the age of 40

Deborah James succumbed to cancer on June 28 at the age of just 40, according to her official Instagram account. “We are deeply saddened to have to announce the death of Dame Deborah James; the greatest wife, daughter, sister and mom. Deborah went peacefully today surrounded by her family,” says the image already mentioned, which shows a beaming James in the holiday shows.

The presenter was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016. Despite chemotherapy and several operations, the cancer could not be defeated. About a month and a half ago, James shared via Instagram that there was no hope for her and that she was going to die in the foreseeable future.

Prince William visited her, the Queen ennobled her

Prince William visited Deborah James at her family’s home in mid-May. Previously, his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II (96), radio presenter and podcaster had ennobled. To celebrate her title of Dame, the Duke of Cambridge came by in person. “I am deeply honored that he joined us for afternoon tea and champagne,” she wrote afterwards.

The 40-year-old shared pictures of Prince William at her family’s home on Instagram, presenting her with a medal and certificate. In the photos, which were taken in the family garden, the royal smiles for the camera along with James, her husband Sebastien Bowen and their two children Hugo, 14, and Eloise, 12.