Archive · 23 Dec 2025
Chris Rea, 'Driving Home for Christmas' Singer, Dies at 74
Chris Rea, a famous British singer known for his song 'Driving Home for Christmas,' passed away on Monday.
He was 74 years old and had been sick for a short time.
His family was with him when he died.
Chris Rea sold over 40 million records in his career.
He is survived by his wife Joan and two daughters, Josephine and Julia.
Chris Rea faced serious health challenges, including pancreatic cancer and a stroke.
He was also a passionate motor racing enthusiast.
His music, especially 'Driving Home for Christmas,' continues to be popular and resonate with audiences around the world.
Chris Rea, known for 'Driving Home for Christmas,' has died at 74.
His death was confirmed by a family spokesperson, who stated he passed away peacefully in the hospital after a short illness.
Rea is survived by his wife Joan and two daughters, Josephine and Julia.
During his career, Rea sold over 40 million records worldwide and faced serious health challenges, including pancreatic cancer and a stroke.
Tributes poured in from fans and institutions, highlighting his impact and legacy.
- Who
- Chris Rea, British singer-songwriter
- What
- Death of Chris Rea
- When
- Monday
- Where
- Hospital
- Why
- Following a short illness
Fans and Institutions
Chris Rea's Family
Tributes
Fans and Institutions
Fans and institutions like Middlesbrough Football Club paid tribute to Chris Rea, highlighting his impact and legacy.
Chris Rea's Family
Chris Rea's family expressed their sadness and shared that he passed away peacefully in the hospital.
- Name
- Chris Rea
- Age at Death
- 74
- Notable Work
- Driving Home for Christmas
- Records Sold
- Over 40 million
- Survivors
- Wife Joan and two daughters, Josephine and Julia
- Health Challenges
- Pancreatic cancer, stroke
- Hobbies
- Motor racing enthusiast
Sources
Chris Rea, Grammy nominated singer-songwriter of 'Driving Home for Christmas' fame, dies at 74
Who was Chris Rea? A look at the life and legacy of the rock and blues star who died at 74
How did Chris Rea die? Details on the death of the ‘Driving Home for Christmas’ singer
Chris Rea Pancreatic Cancer: Early Warning Signs of the Deadly Disease You Should Never Ignore
