Widow and Former Wife of a Baronet

Widow of a Baronet

Officially the widow of a baronet immediately becomes, for example, 'Dowager Lady Stratton' on the death of her husband, unless the widow of a senior baronet of the same creation is still alive, when she becomes Marjorie, Lady Stratton.

Many dowager ladies prefer to use their forename rather than the word 'Dowager'. If in doubt, use of the forename is recommended.

Should the widowed lady remarry, she takes her style from her present husband.

By custom, when the present baronet is unmarried, the widow of the late baronet continues to call herself Lady ………, the same style as when her husband was living.

Should the present baronet marry, it is usual for the widow of the previous baronet to announce the style by which she wishes to be known, ie 'Dowager Lady Stratton' or 'Marjorie, Lady Stratton'.The widow of a Scottish baronet who uses his territorial designation should be so described, eg Dowager Lady Grant of Monymusk, or Mary, Lady Grant of Monymusk.

How to address the Widow of a Baronet

The recommended (social) style of address is as follows:

Beginning of letter	Dear Lady Stratton
End of letter	Yours sincerely
Envelope	Dowager Lady Stratton (not The Dowager Lady Stratton, which would imply the lady is a peeress), or Marjorie, Lady Stratton
Verbal communication	Lady Stratton (or Marjorie, Lady Stratton, if distinction is necessary, or on introduction)
Invitation	Dowager Lady Stratton, or Marjorie, Lady Stratton
Description in conversation	Dowager Lady Stratton, or Marjorie, Lady Stratton
List of Directors or Patrons	Dowager Lady Stratton or Lady (Marjorie) Stratton if required for purposes of identification
Place card	Dowager Lady Stratton, or Marjorie, Lady Stratton
Legal document	Dame Marjorie Joan Stratton, or Marjorie Joan Lady Stratton