Key Takeaways
- Paul Stookey is now the last living member of the folk trio Peter, Paul, and Mary, remaining active at 87.
- The group was iconic in 1960s folk music, using their hits to support civil rights and anti-war movements.
- Stookey has maintained a successful solo career and continues his social activism today.
Yes, Noel “Paul” Stookey, the last surviving member of the legendary folk trio Peter, Paul, and Mary, is still alive as of 2025.
Born on December 30, 1937, Stookey has been a pivotal figure in American folk music for decades.
While his bandmates, Mary Travers and Peter Yarrow, have passed away, Stookey continues to perform, write music, and advocate for social causes.
The Legacy Of Peter, Paul and Mary
Peter, Paul, and Mary were icons of the 1960s folk music revival.
Known for their harmonized renditions of songs like “Blowin’ in the Wind,” “If I Had a Hammer,” and “Puff, the Magic Dragon,” the trio used their music to amplify civil rights and anti-war movements.
They were a cultural phenomenon, winning five Grammy Awards, earning two No. 1 albums, and becoming a symbol of progressive political advocacy.
After forming in 1961, the group released a string of hit albums and songs before temporarily disbanding in 1970.
They reunited in 1978 and performed together until Travers’ passing in 2009.
Paul Stookey’s Solo Career
Beyond his contributions to the trio, Stookey is an accomplished solo artist.
His debut solo album, “Paul, and,” reached No. 42 on the Billboard 200 in 1971.
Similarly, his song “The Wedding Song (There Is Love)” became a timeless hit, reflecting his ability to combine spirituality and music.
The musician has continued to use his platform to support causes like children’s music therapy and social change, co-founding the nonprofit Music to Life with his daughter.
The Loss of His Bandmates
Sadly, Mary Travers passed away in 2009 at the age of 72 due to complications from leukemia treatments. She was known for her strong contralto voice and activism.
Meanwhile, Peter Yarrow d*ed on January 7, 2025, at the age of 86 after battling bladder cancer.
A creative and controversial figure, Yarrow’s legacy is marked by his music and social contributions, as well as personal controversies.
Paul Stookey Today
At 87 years old, Noel “Paul” Stookey remains active in the music industry.
He continues to perform and share his message of love, justice, and spiritual connection.
As the sole surviving member of Peter, Paul, and Mary, Stookey carries forward the trio’s legacy, inspiring new generations of artists and audiences alike.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- After being born in Baltimore, Maryland, Stookey relocated with his family to Birmingham, Michigan, at age 12, where he later completed his education at what is now known as Seaholm High School in 1955.
- Though he enrolled at Michigan State University in East Lansing and became a member of the Delta Upsilon fraternity, he ultimately did not complete his degree.
- In 1963, he wed Elizabeth “Betty” Bannard, and together they had three daughters. The couple initially raised their family in Blue Hill, Maine, before spending time in Massachusetts during Betty’s tenure as chaplain at Northfield Mount Hermon School. They made their return to Maine in 2005.
