Princess Désirée Dies at 87, King Carl XVI Gustaf Expresses Deep Sorrow

Princess Désirée, Duchess of Halland, passed away at the age of 87 on January 21, 2026, at her home in Koberg, Västergötland, surrounded by family. King Carl XVI Gustaf publicly expressed his sorrow, stating, "With great sadness I have received the information that my sister, Princess Désirée, has passed away." He fondly recalled the cherished family memories created at the Silfverschiöld family home in Västergötland. In honor of her passing, flags will be flown at half-mast at Drottningholm and Haga palaces.

Born Désirée Elisabeth Sibylla on June 2, 1938, at Haga Palace, she was one of the well-known "Hagasessorna," growing up in the public eye alongside her sisters. After studying at the French School in Stockholm and furthering her education in Switzerland, she earned a textile degree from Konstfack and briefly worked as a preschool teacher.

In 1964, she married Niclas Silfverschiöld, a landowner from Koberg Castle, and lived a primarily private life focused on family rather than royal duties. In a rare 2008 interview, she expressed that she viewed herself mainly as a mother and wife, placing little importance on her princess title. Désirée became a widow in 2017 and continued to live quietly until her death, leaving behind three children.

The King extended his condolences to her children and their families, marking the end of an era for the Swedish royal family and the cherished "Hagasessorna."