Peter Yarrow, the beloved folk singer-songwriter known for his role in the iconic trio Peter, Paul and Mary, passed away at the age of 86. Yarrow, who succumbed to bladder cancer after a long battle, has left an indelible mark on the music world and social justice movements.

Known for hits like "Puff, the Magic Dragon," co-written with Leonard Lipton, Yarrow and his bandmates—Noel Paul Stookey and Mary Travers—gained fame in the 1960s for their harmonious blend of music and strong commitment to social causes. The trio, celebrated for transforming folk music into a political force, was instrumental in popularizing songs by legends such as Bob Dylan, including the civil rights anthem "Blowin' in the Wind." Their version of this iconic song reached No. 2 on the US charts and became a staple at civil rights demonstrations, including the historic 1963 March on Washington.

Born on May 31, 1938, in New York to Ukrainian Jewish immigrants, Yarrow was raised in an environment that valued the arts. He graduated from Cornell University and later became a fixture in the vibrant Greenwich Village folk scene. His dynamic stage presence and talent caught the attention of future manager Albert Grossman, who envisioned a trio that would elevate the folk genre with polished performances.

The group debuted with their self-titled album in 1962, which contained several standout tracks, including "If I Had a Hammer." Their work garnered recognition, resulting in five Grammy Awards and a lasting legacy that continues to influence artists today. Despite their success, the group faced personal and professional challenges, including Yarrow's conviction in 1970 for sexual misconduct with a minor, for which he served three months in prison. He received a presidential pardon from President Jimmy Carter in 1981.

Even after separating in the 1970s to pursue solo careers, Yarrow and his bandmates reunited for special performances and projects, advocating for various causes, including Operation Respect, aimed at combating school bullying. Yarrow's continued activism was evident in his work, and he remained a prominent figure in both the music industry and in humanitarian efforts.

Alongside his musical contributions, Yarrow co-wrote several songs that further showcased his talent, including the hit "Torn Between Two Lovers." He also received acclaim for his work in children’s entertainment and film, with his song "Puff, the Magic Dragon" being adapted into various animated films, earning him an Emmy nomination.

Yarrow is survived by his two children, Christopher and Bethany, as well as a granddaughter, Valentina. His passing marks the end of an era for fans of folk music and those who valued his contributions to civil rights and social justice movements.

For more details, you can visit Voice of America and The Guardian.