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Last Peter, Paul and Mary Member Reflects on Legacy
27 Jun
Summary
- Noel Stookey, the last member of Peter, Paul and Mary, shared band origins.
- The trio's name was chosen for its flow and biblical connotations.
- Mary Travers died in 2009, and Peter Yarrow in 2025.
Noel Stookey, now 88, is the last surviving member of the legendary folk group Peter, Paul and Mary. He recently shared insights into the band's inception, explaining his agreement to use the name "Paul" for better flow with bandmates Peter Yarrow and Mary Travers. The trio, known for hits like "Puff, the Magic Dragon," met in the vibrant Greenwich Village music scene.
Stookey recalled initial rehearsals where the group struggled to agree on songs, ultimately finding common ground with "Mary Had a Little Lamb," which they performed in a unique three-part harmony. This shared musical moment solidified their bond and led to the formation of the trio.
The band, active from the early 1960s, achieved significant fame before disbanding and later reuniting. Mary Travers passed away in 2009, and Peter Yarrow died in 2025. Stookey remains as the sole living member of the group that left an indelible mark on folk music.
