When the world thinks of the late Diana, Princess of Wales, the spotlight often extends to her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, and the next generation of the British royal family. Yet behind Diana’s story are her siblings, each of whom played a role in her life and legacy. Among them, Lady Jane Fellowes, or more formally Cynthia Jane Fellowes, Baroness Fellowes, is a figure of remarkable dignity, discretion, and strength. Although she avoids the media glare, her life is deeply intertwined with the monarchy and with Diana’s story.
This article explores who Lady Jane Fellowes is, her early life, family connections, marriage to Robert Fellowes, her role as a supportive sister, and her enduring presence in the lives of her nephews and nieces.
Early Life of Lady Jane Fellowes
Lady Jane Fellowes was born Cynthia Jane Spencer on 11 February 1957 at Sandringham, Norfolk, England. She was the second daughter of Edward John Spencer, 8th Earl Spencer, and Frances Ruth Burke Roche, later known as Frances Shand Kydd. Her parents’ marriage was turbulent and ended in divorce, which had a profound impact on all of the Spencer children, including Jane.
Growing up in the stately homes of the Spencer family, she was surrounded by aristocratic traditions yet also exposed to the challenges of a high-profile family. Jane was educated at West Heath boarding school in Kent, the same school attended by her younger sister Diana. The sisters shared a close bond during their youth, with Diana even serving as a bridesmaid at Jane’s wedding years later.
In her early years, Lady Jane was known for her reserved nature and strong sense of responsibility, a characteristic that would later define her adult life and public appearances.
Connection to Frances Ruth Roche – Lady Jane’s Mother
Lady Jane’s mother, Frances Ruth Roche, also played a defining role in shaping her children’s futures. Born into the influential Roche family, Frances married Edward John Spencer in 1954 at Westminster Abbey. The marriage initially carried the promise of uniting two powerful aristocratic families, but behind the scenes, it was fraught with difficulties.
After her divorce, Frances became known as Frances Shand Kydd following her remarriage. She led a quieter life and eventually converted to Roman Catholicism. Frances passed away in 2004, but her children, including Lady Jane, continued to acknowledge her influence. It was Frances who instilled in them a sense of duty and resilience, even as the family weathered personal struggles.
Who is Lady Jane Fellowes?
At her core, Lady Jane Fellowes is a woman who has chosen to live quietly, outside the glare of constant media attention. Unlike her sister Diana, who became “the People’s Princess,” Jane embraced discretion. Despite her reserved lifestyle, she has stepped forward at pivotal moments, reflecting her deep loyalty to her family.
She became particularly well-known to the public during Diana’s funeral in 1997, when she delivered an emotional reading of a poem by Henry Van Dyke Jr. Her words touched millions watching around the world and reinforced the sense of strength and dignity that she embodies.
Lady Jane Fellowes and Her Husband Robert Fellowes
On 20 April 1978, Jane married Robert Fellowes, who would later become Baron Fellowes of Shotesham. Their wedding took place at the Guards’ Chapel, Wellington Barracks, London, with Diana serving as a bridesmaid.
Robert Fellowes was not just a distinguished figure in aristocratic circles but also a senior courtier. He held one of the most powerful roles in the royal household, serving as Private Secretary to Queen Elizabeth II from 1990 to 1999. In this role, he was responsible for managing the Queen’s official duties, correspondence, and communications at the height of significant historical events, including Diana’s divorce from Prince Charles and her tragic death.
For his dedicated service, Robert Fellowes was made a life peer in 1999, granting him the title Baron Fellowes of Shotesham. This elevated Lady Jane’s own title, making her Baroness Fellowes.
The couple had three children:
- Laura Jane Fellowes (born 1980), who has become known for her quiet yet distinguished lifestyle and connections to the royal family.
- Alexander Robert Fellowes (born 1983).
- Eleanor Ruth Fellowes (born 1985).
Their family has largely remained out of the public eye, reflecting Jane’s preference for privacy.
Lady Jane Fellowes as a Young Woman
As a young woman, Jane was described as elegant, thoughtful, and dutiful—traits that distinguished her from her more outgoing sister, Diana. Friends and family have often remarked on her sense of maturity and her ability to remain composed in challenging situations.
Her youthful years saw her navigating aristocratic society, attending events, and representing the Spencer family with grace. However, unlike her brother Charles Spencer or her sister Diana, Jane preferred a quieter path, one less dominated by media scrutiny.
Lady Jane Fellowes’ Role After Diana’s Death
Lady Jane became more publicly recognized in 1997, after Diana’s untimely death. She played a pivotal role during the funeral, reading a heartfelt passage that offered both comfort and dignity to the grieving world.
Following that, Jane continued to support her nephews, Prince William and Prince Harry. Her presence at significant events in their lives—including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding in 2018, where she read a biblical passage—illustrates the enduring bond between the Spencer family and the royal family.
In 2019, she was also among the select family members invited to the christening of Archie Mountbatten-Windsor, Harry and Meghan’s son. Her inclusion underscored the respect Harry has for his mother’s side of the family and the important role Jane has played in his life.
More recently, Lady Jane appeared at the unveiling of Diana’s statue at Kensington Palace in July 2021, alongside her siblings. She was also seen at events supporting Prince Harry’s initiatives, such as the Invictus Games anniversary service in 2024.
Lady Jane Fellowes’ Age and Birthday
Lady Jane was born on 11 February 1957, which makes her 68 years old as of 2025. Her birthday falls under the zodiac sign of Aquarius, often associated with independence, humanitarian values, and calm strength—qualities that align with how she has lived her life.
Her age reflects a woman who has seen decades of public and private challenges, yet who has carried herself with dignity and composure throughout.
A Life of Quiet Strength
While Lady Jane has rarely sought the limelight, her presence has consistently been felt at the most significant milestones of her family’s life. Whether through her steadfast support of Diana during her lifetime, her compassion during times of loss, or her quiet encouragement to William and Harry, Jane represents the enduring backbone of the Spencer family.
She bridges the gap between royalty and private aristocracy, embodying discretion in a world where so many public figures are constantly scrutinized.
Conclusion
Lady Jane Fellowes’ story is one of quiet resilience, loyalty, and grace. She is not just Diana’s sister or the wife of a royal courtier; she is a woman who has chosen to live with dignity away from the spotlight, while stepping forward at critical moments that define both her family and the monarchy.
Her life journey—from being the daughter of Frances Ruth Roche, to her marriage to Robert Fellowes, to her role in honoring Diana’s memory—makes her an enduring figure in British aristocracy. Even as she turns 68, her significance remains deeply felt, not through headlines but through the bonds she has nurtured within her family.
For readers who seek a deeper appreciation of the royal family’s extended connections, Lady Jane Fellowes stands as a symbol of the quieter, often unseen strength that sustains traditions and family unity.
And as we reflect on her life and contributions, may this story remind us of the profound ways in which even those who choose privacy can leave an indelible mark.
Published on Megacine