Tuesday, May 14, 2024

Legacy of the 13th Duke of Brissac: A Life of Service and Philanthropy

The sudden and unexpected death of the 13th Duke of Brissac, Henri d'Orléans, has sent shockwaves through the French aristocracy and beyond. This remarkable individual, known for his unwavering dedication to his heritage and his family's legacy, left an indelible mark on the world of French nobility.

As the last direct descendant of the House of Orléans, Henri d'Orléans was a prominent figure in French society, with a rich history of philanthropy and public service. His untimely passing has left a void that will be deeply felt by those who knew him and those who admired his tireless efforts to preserve the cultural and historical heritage of France. The world mourns the loss of a true gentleman and a champion of French nobility, as we reflect on the remarkable life and achievements of the 13th Duke of Brissac.

what is the significance of the death of the 13th duke de brissac

The death of the 13th Duke of Brissac, François de Cossé, on April 6, 2021, marked the end of an era in French nobility. As the last direct descendant of the House of Orléans, his passing left a significant void in the aristocratic circles of France. The duke was known for his dedication to preserving the cultural and historical heritage of France, particularly through his involvement in the Jockey-Club de Paris and the Order of Saint Lazarus. His legacy extends beyond his family's noble lineage, as he was a prominent figure in French society, respected for his philanthropic efforts and commitment to preserving the country's rich history.

who succeeded the 13th duke de brissac

The 13th Duke of Brissac, François de Cossé, was succeeded by his son, Charles-André de Cossé, who became the 14th Duke of Brissac.

who was the 14th duke of brissac

The 14th Duke of Brissac is Charles-André de Cossé-Brissac.

François de Cossé-Brissac, XIII Duc de Brissac.

On Tuesday, 6 April 2021, the 13th Duke de Brissac passed away at the age of ninety-two. Surrounded by his family, the duke died at his manor La Roche in Charcé-Saint-Ellier. The late duke was particularly passionate about horse breeding, and he served as a municipal councillor in Brissac.

Pierre de Cossé, Duke de Brissac.
May de Cossé (née Schneider), Duchess de Brissac.

Born on 29 February 1929 at the château de la Verrerie, Eugène Marie TimolĂ©on François de CossĂ©-Brissac was the eldest son of Pierre de CossĂ©-Brissac (1900-1993), 12th Duke de Brissac, and Marie-ZĂ©lie "May" Antoinette EugĂ©nie Schneider (1902-1999). François had three siblings: Marie-Pierre (b.1925; married 1stly Simon Nora; married 2ndly Maurice Herzog; married 3rdly Christian Schmidt), Gilles (1935-2002), and Elvire (b.1939). 

The Duke and Duchess de Brissac with Sir Roger Moore and his wife. 
The Duke and Duchess de Brissac attend the Christmas dinner at the British Embassy to Paris, 2009. Photograph (c) Getty Images / Bertrand Rindoff Petroff.

In 1958, François de CossĂ©-Brissac married Jacqueline de Contades (b.1940), the daughter of AndrĂ© de Contades and Marguerite "Daisy" Thome. Jacqueline was a friend of her husband's younger sister Elvire. François and Jacqueline had five children, three daughters and two sons: Agnès (b.1960; married Bruno van den Broek d'Obrenan), Charles-AndrĂ© (b.1962), AngĂ©lique (b.1965; married Vicomte Stanislas de RougĂ©), Marie-Antoinette (b.1968; married Philippe Leclerq), and Pierre-Emmanuel (b.1974; married Marie-Astrid Larue).

The late Duke de Brissac with his eldest son Marquis Charles-André de Cossé-Brissac.

The 14th Duke de Brissac is the eldest son and heir of François: Charles-AndrĂ© de CossĂ©-Brissac. In 1993, Charles-AndrĂ© married Countess Larissa SzĂ©chĂ©nyi de Sárvár-Felsövidek (b.1967). The new Duke and Duchess de Brissac have four children, three daughters and one son: Laszlo (b.1994), Irina (b.1996), DĂ©lia (b.1998; engaged to Prince Marc von CroĂż), and Annabel (b.2002). 

May the Duke de Brissac Rest in Peace.

The passing of the 13th Duke of Brissac, François de Cossé, marks the end of an era in French nobility. As we reflect on his remarkable life and legacy, we are reminded of the significant impact he had on the world of French aristocracy. His dedication to preserving the cultural and historical heritage of France, particularly through his involvement in the Jockey-Club de Paris and the Order of Saint Lazarus, will be deeply felt by those who knew him and those who admired his tireless efforts. The House of Orléans, to which he belonged, has a rich history of philanthropy and public service, and his contributions to this noble lineage will be remembered for generations to come.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, we are left with a sense of gratitude for the life he lived and the legacy he left behind. His commitment to his family's noble lineage and his unwavering dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of France are testaments to his character and his sense of responsibility. The Order of Saint Lazarus, which he served as Grand Master from 1986 to 2004, is a testament to his enduring influence on the world of French nobility. As we move forward, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and the role that individuals like the 13th Duke of Brissac play in shaping our understanding of the world around us. His passing serves as a reminder of the transience of life and the importance of cherishing the time we have with those who make a lasting impact on our world.

what were the duke's contributions to the brissac family and region

The 13th Duke of Brissac, François de Cossé, made significant contributions to the Brissac family and the region through his dedication to preserving the cultural and historical heritage of France. He was particularly passionate about horse breeding and served as a municipal councillor in Brissac. Additionally, he held various positions of prominence, including President of the Jockey-Club de Paris from 1997 to 2014 and Grand Master of the Order of Saint Lazarus from 1986 to 2004. His involvement in these organizations reflects his commitment to the preservation of French nobility and its traditions.

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