Peter Yarrow, Folk Legend of Peter, Paul and Mary, Dies at 86

The “Puff, the Magic Dragon” co-writer had been in a long battle with cancer

Peter Yarrow
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 12: Musician Peter Yarrow performs as part of the "Voices on The Hudson" series at City Vineyard on January 12, 2020 in New York City. (Photo by Al Pereira/Getty Images).

Peter Yarrow, namesake folk singer of the legendary trio Peter, Paul and Mary, has died, according to multiple media reports. He was 86.

Yarrow, co-writer of “Puff, the Magic Dragon” and other timeless folk hits, reportedly died Tuesday morning at his New York City home, surrounded by family, after a four-year battle with bladder cancer. His daughter Bethany confirmed the news through a statement to the Associated Press.

“Our fearless dragon is tired and has entered the last chapter of his magnificent life,” she wrote. “The world knows Peter Yarrow the iconic folk activist, but the human being behind the legend is every bit as generous, creative, passionate, playful and wise as his lyrics suggest.”

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