Doria Ragland, the mother of Meghan Markle and a steadfast supporter of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, is celebrating her 70th birthday next week. Her milestone birthday comes as the family she has closely supported prepares for potential significant shifts, including a possible relocation to the UK for the children's schooling.
Since the Sussexes stepped down as senior royals and moved to the United States in 2020, Ragland has been a consistent presence in their lives. She resides in a bungalow outside Los Angeles, a drive of less than two hours from the couple's Montecito mansion. Reports suggest she has a dedicated space within their California home, and insiders indicate she will continue to be based near their U.S. property.
The potential move to the UK for Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, to attend English schools from September could mean more frequent visits from their grandmother. Ragland has been described as a source of unwavering support, a "rock" for both Meghan and Prince Harry during challenging periods, including their departure from royal duties and their initial relocation to California.
Ragland's bond with the couple has been noted for its strength, particularly in contrast to other strained family relationships. She was present at key moments, including staying with the Sussexes at Frogmore Cottage for over a month following Archie's birth, as detailed in Prince Harry's memoir "Spare." Her support was also evident during the difficult initial months after "Megxit," where she was characterized as an "oasis of calm."
Her involvement in the couple's life has extended to public appearances. Ragland was featured in Meghan's Netflix series, participating in a celebration brunch. During the event, she engaged in a lighthearted exchange about garden-fresh ingredients, showcasing a glimpse of her interactions within the family circle.
Prince Harry has also developed a close relationship with his mother-in-law, who a royal source described as a "tower of strength" for the couple. Harry himself has spoken highly of Ragland, calling her "amazing" in a BBC interview around the time of his engagement. He has previously stated that while he lacked a mother figure to turn to for advice, he found that support in Ragland.
Ragland, a social worker and yoga instructor, has largely maintained a private profile since attending the royal wedding in May 2018. She was the sole representative from Meghan's family at the ceremony, an event not attended by Meghan's father, Thomas Markle. Ragland and Thomas Markle were married in 1979 and divorced in 1987.
She has, however, appeared in photos and videos shared by her daughter, including a Mother's Day outing to Disneyland in California with Meghan, Harry, Archie, and Lilibet. In January, footage shared by Meghan showed Ragland spending time with Lilibet by the family pool.
Ragland was also in Montecito caring for Archie and Lilibet in 2022 when Queen Elizabeth II passed away. At the time, the Sussexes were in the UK for engagements and extended their stay following the Queen's death, attending various public events and the funeral. Meghan later described that period on her Netflix show "With Love, Meghan" as the longest she had gone without seeing her children, a separation that left her feeling unwell.