John Donaldson, Father of Denmark's Queen Mary, Dies at 84

"My beloved father has passed away. But I know that when the grief settles, the memories will brighten my day, and what will remain strongest is love and gratitude for everything he gave me and taught me." — Queen Mary of Denmark

John Donaldson, the father of Denmark's Queen Mary, died in Hobart, Australia, on April 12, 2026. He was 84 years old.

The Danish royal family announced his death on Sunday, releasing the statement from Queen Mary. The announcement was accompanied by a black and white portrait of Donaldson taken by the Queen on March 23, 2026.

Announcement and Statement

The Danish royal family issued a statement confirming the death of Professor John Donaldson. In the statement, Queen Mary reflected on her father's passing and the enduring legacy of his love and guidance.

Biographical Background

John Donaldson was born in Scotland on September 5, 1941. He earned a mathematics degree from the University of Edinburgh before migrating to Australia with his first wife, Henrietta 'Etta' Donaldson, in 1963. The couple settled in Hobart, Tasmania.

Academic Career

Donaldson received his Ph.D. from the University of Tasmania in 1968 and subsequently joined the university's mathematics department as a lecturer. He was appointed Dean of the Science Faculty, a position he held until his retirement in 2003. His academic work included visiting professorships at institutions in Houston, Montreal, and Oxford.

Personal Life

His first wife, Etta, died in 1997 at age 55 from complications following heart surgery. In 2001, he married English crime novelist Susan Moody.

Family

John Donaldson is survived by his wife, Susan, his four children, and 12 grandchildren. His children are daughters Jane, Patricia, and Mary, and a son named John.

Royal Connection

His daughter, Mary Elizabeth Donaldson, became Queen of Denmark following the accession of her husband, King Frederik X, in January 2024. Donaldson walked his daughter Mary down the aisle at her 2004 wedding to then-Crown Prince Frederik. His grandchildren include Crown Prince Christian of Denmark.

Recent Visit

Queen Mary and King Frederik completed an official tour of Australia in March 2026, which concluded in Hobart on March 19. The royal couple remained in Hobart for additional days after the official events concluded. Queen Mary has described the time spent with her father during this visit as "precious."