Charlie Watts' wife Shirley has died aged 82 following a short illness.
In a statement shared by the couple's three children today, it was announced Shirley had 'reunited with her beloved Charlie'.
The statement reads: "It is with great sadness that Seraphina, Charlotte and Barry announce the death of their much-loved mother, grandmother and mother-in law Shirley Watts.
"Shirley died peacefully on Friday 16th December in Devon after a short illness surrounded by her family.
"She will be also sadly missed by her sisters Jackie and Jill, and her brother Stephen.
"Reunited now forever with her beloved Charlie."
Charlie and Shirley met in 1961 and were happily married for 57 years before Charlie’s death in 2021.
Born Shirley Ann Shepherd, Shirley studied sculpture at the Royal College of Art.
While there, she met Charlie, who was then a graphic designer and part-time jazz musician, and the couple married in 1964.
Four years later Shirley gave birth to their daughter, Seraphina, and they moved to Devon eventually where she ran a world-class Arabian stud farm.
Shirley went on to become highly respected as a breeder and show person in the International Arabian horse community.
Throughout her 57-year marriage to the Rolling Stones drummer, Shirley remained the love of his life and their love remained constant throughout the years.
Shirley was an accomplished sculptor and huge supporter of animal rescue.
Her death comes just less than 16 months after Charlie’s in August 2021.
"It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Charlie Watts," a statement shared at the time read.
"He passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family."
The rocker was described as a 'a cherished husband, father and grandfather' and 'one of the greatest drummers of his generation'.
Charlie was beloved by music fans for his stylish playing on classic Stones' tracks including Jumpin’ Jack Flash, Honky Tonk Women and Brown Sugar.
Hours after the announcement, bandmates Mick Jagger and Keith Richards posted to their respective social media pages.
Jagger's, 78, page showed a picture of Charlie beaming behind his drums. Minutes later Richards', 77, Instagram page shared a shot of an empty kit with a 'closed' sign poignantly hanging from the stand.
Fellow legends of the music world remembered the talented drummer in a series of heartfelt tributes in August 2021.
Sir Elton John posted a picture with Charlie and said: "A very sad day. Charlie Watts was the ultimate drummer.
“The most stylish of men, and such brilliant company. My deepest condolences to Shirley, Seraphina and Charlotte. And of course, The Rolling Stones.”
Charlie's Beatles counterpart Sir Ringo also tweeted a picture, writing: “God bless Charlie Watts, we’re going to miss you man, peace and love to the family, Ringo.”
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@mirror.co.uk or call us direct at 0207 29 33033
