Rosemary Breen, Sister of Syd Barrett

by Keith J · Published December 9, 2023 · Updated September 16, 2024

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1950 Don, Rosemary, Roger Keith Syd Barrett, Ruth, Alan with Mum and Dad Winifred and Arthur — 1950 Family Portrait: Don Barrett, Rosemary Barrett, Roger Keith Syd Barrett, Ruth Barrett, Alan Barrett with Mum and Dad, Winifred (née Heeps) and Dr Arthur Max Barrett

Rosemary Breen is the sister of the late Roger Keith ‘Syd’ Barrett, founding member of Pink Floyd. Rosemary was the youngest sibling of 5 and grew up in Cambridge, England. The other members of the family were eldest brother Alan Barrett, second eldest Don Barrett, sister Ruth Barrett, brother Roger Keith Syd Barrett. The parents were very highly regarded father and pathologist Dr Arthur Barrett and mother Winifred Barrett (née Heeps).

January 6th 1949 Roger Keith Syd Barrett with sister Rosemary

Dr Arthur Barrett sadly died in 1961when Syd and Rosemary were still in their teens. Winifred would pass away much later on 30th September 1991.

In terms of chosen career, Rosemary Breen would go on to become a nurse working in London at St Georges Hospital, and would later look after her brother in later life once he came back to Cambridge.

Later Life and Care for Syd Barrett

Through various interviews, Rosemary has depicted Syd not just as a rock star but as a true artist at heart, emphasizing his passion for painting and his discomfort with fame. She has been instrumental in providing insights into his life and character, particularly his artistic inclinations beyond his music career.

In the later years of Syd Barrett’s life, after he retreated from the public eye and the music industry, Rosemary played a significant role in his care. After a period of struggle with mental health issues and the impacts of fame, Syd returned to live in Cambridge in the 1980s. During this time, he resided with his mother and later had a house to himself, with Rosemary being a constant presence in his life. Rosemary recounted that during this period, Syd engaged in painting, gardening, and occasional outings. She noted the challenges he faced with communication and social interaction, likely exacerbated by his past drug use.

1981 Essex, Syd Barrett with sister Rosemary and mother Winifred

Rosemary’s Perspective on Syd’s Life and Legacy

In her reflections on Syd’s life, Rosemary has offered a unique perspective, highlighting the complexities of his character and the challenges he faced due to fame and substance abuse. She has expressed a desire for Syd’s story to serve as a cautionary tale, especially for young fans who idolize him, illustrating the potential dangers of fame and the importance of staying true to one’s passions and interests.