Peter Yarrow Dies at 86 Leaving Lasting Legacy in Folk Music and Civil Rights Activism

Peter Yarrow, of trio Peter, Paul and Mary, inspired generations through timeless folk music and advocacy efforts.

Peter Yarrow, a celebrated folk musician and a founding member of the iconic trio Peter, Paul and Mary, has died at the age of 86. His publicist confirmed that Yarrow passed away peacefully at his family home in New York City on Tuesday Morning, surrounded by loved ones.

Yarrow rose to fame in the 1960s as part of the iconic group Peter, Paul and Mary. The trio became synonymous with the American folk music revival, producing timeless hits such as Puff, the Magic Dragon, If I Had a Hammer, and Blowin’ in the Wind. The group’s harmonious melodies and socially conscious lyrics resonated with a generation grappling with civil rights issues, war, and cultural shifts.

Beyond his music, Yarrow was a passionate activist. He used his platform to advocate for civil rights, peace, and social justice. One of his notable contributions was the creation of the non-profit organization Operation Respect, which worked to promote anti-bullying programs in schools.

Yarrow’s career, however, was not without controversy. In the 1970s, he pleaded guilty to an incident involving an underage girl, for which he served a short sentence. While his personal life sparked debate, his contributions to folk music and activism remained widely respected.

Yarrow’s death marks the end of an era for American folk music, but his legacy will endure through his songs and the causes he championed.