In July 2023, Stewart showcased his devotion to family as much as his love for music by inviting his older sister Mary onstage during his UK tour in Edinburgh. As “Sailing” began, Mary, aged 94, was escorted onstage by one of Stewart’s backing singers. Stewart proudly introduced her to the crowd, saying, “This is my sister! 94.”
The genuine love between Stewart and Mary was evident as they embraced, and he affectionately kissed her head. Singing together, Stewart draped the Royal Banner of Scotland flag over his sister’s shoulders. He even gave Mary a conducting lesson for the band, earning cheers from the crowd. Stewart expressed to The Mirror:
“At 94, she’s on a rock’n’roll stage and loving it. She has and continues to teach me about life.”
The Edinburgh tour stop held special significance due to the Stewart family’s Scottish roots. Born to Robert Stewart and Elsie Gilbart, all of the rock star’s siblings were born in Scotland before the family moved to London, where Rod Stewart was later born.
Aside from Mary, Stewart had another sister named Peggy, who tragically passed away in 1975 from multiple sclerosis at the age of 40. In 2022, the singer experienced the loss of his two brothers within months of each other. Don passed away in September 2022 at 94, while Bob, aged 88, passed away two months later. Stewart publicly shared his grief:
“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 stated:
“These guys were instrumental in supporting me, helping me get into music and just being there for me.”
