Princess Alice undertook public duties almost up until the end of her life. In her 99th year Princess Alice retired from official engagements away from Kensington Palace, although she continued to receive family and friends in the comfort of her home and, occasionally, representatives from her regiments and charitable organisations.

Princess Alice's 100th birthday was marked on 12 December 2001 with a special gathering at Kensington Palace. Many members of the Royal Family, including The Queen, Princess Margaret, The Prince of Wales, and The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester and their family, gathered at Kensington Palace for a unique birthday party.

With Princess Alice as guest of honour, they watched a military parade by the King's Own Scottish Borderers, of whom Princess Alice has been Colonel-in-Chief for more than 60 years. The band played music which included a special birthday composition and 'Happy Birthday'.

On Christmas Day, the Princess opened a very special birthday card - the traditional telemessage sent by the Sovereign to individuals who achieve their 100th birthday.

Princess Alice became the oldest living member of the Royal Family, achieving the remarkable age of 102 before dying peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by her family, at Kensington Palace on 29 October 2004.