In July 2023, Rod Stewart demonstrated his deep love for both family and music by bringing his older sister, Mary, onstage during his UK tour in Edinburgh. As the opening notes of *Sailing* played, 94-year-old Mary was escorted onto the stage by one of Stewart’s backing singers. With pride, Stewart introduced her to the audience, exclaiming, “This is my sister! 94.”
Their bond was evident as they embraced, and Stewart affectionately kissed Mary on the head. As they sang together, he draped the Royal Banner of Scotland over her shoulders and even gave her a conducting lesson for the band, drawing cheers from the crowd. Speaking to *The Mirror*, Stewart shared:
“At 94, she’s on a rock ’n’ roll stage and loving it. She has and continues to teach me about life.”
The Edinburgh concert held special significance due to Stewart’s Scottish heritage. While he was born in London, his parents, Robert Stewart and Elsie Gilbart, had all their other children in Scotland before relocating south.
In addition to Mary, Stewart had a sister, Peggy, who tragically passed away from multiple sclerosis in 1975 at the age of 40. In 2022, he suffered another heartbreaking loss when both of his brothers passed away within months of each other—Don at 94 in September, followed by Bob, 88, in November. Mourning their passing, Stewart shared:
“It’s with great sadness that I announce the loss of my brother Bob last night, who joins my brother Don on the great football pitch in the sky. I’ve lost two of my best mates in two months.”
Reflecting on his siblings in 2019, Stewart acknowledged their unwavering support:
“These guys were instrumental in supporting me, helping me get into music, and just being there for me.”