The final weeks of Chris Rea’s life were shadowed by a heartbreaking series of losses, a grief that resonated deeply within his family as the beloved musician passed away just before Christmas. He was 79 years old, and his death followed the passing of two of his siblings within a mere three months, leaving those closest to him reeling in shock.
Born into a large family of seven children, Rea’s roots were firmly planted in a bustling household shaped by his Italian father and Irish mother. His sister, Camille Whitaker, shared the devastating news of the recent losses, revealing that youngest brother Nicholas succumbed to brain cancer in October, followed just days later by the sudden death of Whitaker’s twin, Geraldine Milward.
“It is gut-wrenching what happened,” Whitaker expressed, describing the family’s profound sorrow. “The family has been quite shocked by it. It is tragic. We can’t sort of get around it.” Despite not having seen her brother for nearly two years, they remained connected through phone calls, their last conversation occurring just six days before his death.
Rea had been battling illness for some time, largely withdrawing from public life. He “hid away from most people,” according to his sister, quietly enduring health struggles that kept him “home-ridden.” Yet, even in his final months, a spark of joy illuminated his life with the arrival of a grandson, a moment that brought him immense happiness.
He is survived by his wife, Joan, with whom he shared a lifelong love story that began in their teenage years in Middlesbrough, and their two daughters, Josephine and Julia. Josephine served as the inspiration for one of his cherished songs, while Julia recently welcomed the newest member of the family, the baby boy who brought such delight to the musician.
The outpouring of love from fans has offered a measure of comfort to Whitaker during this incredibly difficult time. She expressed surprise at the extent of his enduring popularity, particularly the beloved status of his Christmas hit, “Driving Home for Christmas.” “It is amazing what is being said about him,” she remarked, touched by the widespread affection for her brother’s music.
That iconic song, born from a December recording session in 1978 and a journey home to the north, initially appeared as a B-side. But its heartwarming melody resonated with listeners, prompting Rea to re-record it and ultimately cementing its place as a perennial Christmas favorite. Over the years, it has generated an estimated £7 million in royalties.
In a poignant moment shared during his final television appearance, Rea revealed a remarkable act of love towards his wife. After receiving a hopeful diagnosis during a battle with pancreatic cancer, he playfully “gave her all the money, all the rights to all the songs,” a gesture met with laughter and a refusal to relinquish the gift.
Chris Rea’s legacy extends far beyond his music; it’s a story of family, enduring love, and a quiet strength that touched the lives of countless people. His passing leaves a void, but the warmth of his music and the memories of a life well-lived will undoubtedly endure.
