Mary Travers: Husband, Children & Life Of The Folk Icon

20 May, 2025

Could a voice, once the cornerstone of a generation's soundtrack, truly fade into silence? The world lost a musical icon when Mary Travers, the luminous voice of Peter, Paul and Mary, succumbed to leukemia, leaving behind a legacy etched in the hearts of millions.

The news, breaking on a Wednesday, sent ripples of sadness through the folk music community and beyond. Travers, a woman whose voice defined an era, departed at the age of 72, leaving behind a rich tapestry of music and memories. She was more than just a singer; she was a symbol of an era, a voice for social change, and a beacon of artistic expression.

Born Mary Allin Travers, her life began in Louisville, Kentucky, on either November 7th or 9th, 1936. The exact date is a point of some debate, with conflicting reports across various sources. What is undisputed, however, is the impact she would have on the world. Her parents, both writers, moved the family to New York City when she was just two years old, a move that would shape her artistic sensibilities and immerse her in the vibrant cultural landscape of Greenwich Village.

Full Name	Mary Allin Travers
Born	November 7, 1936 or November 9, 1936, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
Died	Wednesday, at the age of 72
Cause of Death	Leukemia
Spouse(s)	Ethan Robbins, Gerald L. Taylor, Barry Feinstein, and her first husband in 1958
Children	Erika Marshall, Alicia Travers
Occupation	Singer, Songwriter, Musician
Known For	Member of Peter, Paul and Mary
Associated Acts	Peter, Paul and Mary
Solo Albums	Mary (1971), and others.
Reference Website	Britannica

Travers' journey into the world of music was a serendipitous one. It was in the heart of the Greenwich Village folk scene that she crossed paths with Peter Yarrow and Paul Stookey, forming the iconic trio Peter, Paul and Mary. Together, they would redefine folk music, infusing it with a potent blend of social consciousness, melodic beauty, and vocal harmonies that captivated audiences worldwide. Their impact on music, and on the cultural landscape of the 1960s, is undeniable.

Their voices became synonymous with anthems of the era. Songs like "If I Had a Hammer (The Hammer Song)" (1962), a powerful call for unity and peace; "Puff, the Magic Dragon" (1963), a whimsical yet profound tale that captured the imaginations of children and adults alike; and "Blowin' in the Wind" (1963), a Bob Dylan composition that became an anthem for the civil rights movement and beyond, all found their distinctive and unforgettable voice through the trio's collective talent, with Mary Travers' unique tone playing a key role in their timeless appeal. Their hits also included "I Dig Rock and Roll Music" (1967), a playful commentary on the music scene, and "Leaving on a Jet Plane," a song that would be covered by John Denver and become a chart-topping hit.

The group's website, and various news outlets, reported on her death, confirming that she passed away due to complications from leukemia. She had been battling the disease for several years, undergoing chemotherapy treatments. The statement highlighted the side effects of the treatments as the cause of her passing, a testament to the toll the illness took on her, and a reminder of the brave fight she waged, even as she was remembered for her extraordinary talents.

Her impact extended far beyond the charts. Peter, Paul and Mary's music became the soundtrack for a generation grappling with social and political change. Their songs tackled themes of peace, equality, and environmentalism. Mary Travers' voice, with its distinctive contralto tones, became an instantly recognizable emblem of this musical and cultural moment. They inspired countless artists and helped define the sound of folk music for decades to come.

Travers' ability to connect with audiences was palpable. Her voice carried an emotional depth that resonated with listeners. Whether delivering a message of protest or singing a whimsical tune, her performances were infused with a sincerity that drew audiences in. Her voice was not just a voice; it was an instrument, an expression of her heart and soul.

The trios success was also driven by their commitment to each other and to their message. Beyond the music, Peter, Paul, and Mary were active in the civil rights movement, using their platform to speak out against injustice and advocate for change. They performed at numerous rallies and benefit concerts, lending their voices to important causes.

Following the disbandment of the group in 1970, Travers embarked on a solo career. She released five solo albums, including her self-titled debut, "Mary" (1971), and continued to perform, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to music. Her career, spanning decades, serves as a testament to her resilience and dedication to her craft.

Mary's marriages were part of her personal story. She married her first husband in 1958, then Barry Feinstein in 1963, followed by Gerald L. Taylor in 1969, and finally Ethan Robbins in 1991. She leaves behind her fourth husband, Ethan Robbins, along with her daughters, Alicia and Erika, and leaves the world with a legacy of love, music and hope.

A memorial service for Mary Travers was held on November 9, 2009, at Riverside Church in New York City. The memorial served as a gathering of tributes, as individuals came together to share stories and reflect on the impact of her work and the significance of her legacy. The service provided a place for remembrance and honoring the contributions of Mary Travers, whose influence would continue to inspire.

Mary's work was not confined solely to music. She was also a writer, contributing to the creative landscape with her pen. She was known for her work in films like "Mary: Rhymes and Reasons" (1972), "Great Performances" (1971), and "Isn't This a Time! A Tribute Concert for Harold Leventhal" (2004). Her artistic pursuits showcased her multifaceted talents and creative spirit.

The news of Mary Travers' passing sent shockwaves throughout the music world. Tributes poured in from fellow musicians, fans, and those who had been touched by her music. She was remembered not only for her voice but for the warmth, compassion, and integrity she brought to everything she did. Her passing marked the end of an era, but her music continues to live on.

Mary Travers' story is a testament to the enduring power of music and the indelible mark that one voice can make on the world. Her songs continue to resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding us of the importance of unity, peace, and the pursuit of a better world. The absence of her voice in the world leaves a void, but her music ensures that her spirit will remain with us forever.

Mary Travers, the woman whose voice helped define a generation, is gone, but her songs remain. Her legacy will continue to inspire, and her music will continue to bring joy and solace to generations to come.

FROM THE VAULTS Mary Travers born 9 November 1936

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Mary travers a look back at the rise of peter paul and mary Artofit

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Rod McKuen and Mary Travers during a break from a TV taping in England

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