New Found Glory guitarist Chad Gilbert dead at 45: ‘We are devastated’
New Found Glory guitarist Chad Gilbert has died, the band announced on social media.
Gilbert “passed away peacefully in his sleep” on Sunday morning, according to an Instagram post shared by the pop-punk band as well as his wife, Lisa Cimorelli. He was 45 years old.
“He left this world surrounded by friends and family and took his final breaths with his wife and mother by his side, just as he wished,” the statement read. “We are devastated and shocked by how quickly he left us, yet so grateful for how peacefully and smoothly he went.”
“He was a legendary musician, but his favorite accomplishment was being a husband and father,” they also shared. “His biggest dreams came true. He is survived by his wife, Lisa, his daughter, Lily, his mother, Jackie, and his brother, Brian.”
The band noted that Gilbert’s guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive helped shape the band for nearly three decades.
“Through more than a dozen albums, endless tours around the world, and more accolades than we ever could have imagined, Chad challenged all of us to grow as musicians, performers, and human beings,” the statement read. “While we are devastated to lose him, we are so grateful for the incredible life he lived, the memories we shared, and the brotherhood we had. His influence will always be part of New Found Glory and his spirit will be felt on every stage we stand on, with every note we play.”
They concluded, “Rest in peace, Chad. We love you forever ❤️.”
Gilbert had been battling cancer for years. He underwent brain surgery in February to remove three tumors and the surgery was successful, he shared on Instagram at the time.
Back in December 2021, he was diagnosed with a rare adrenal gland cancer, which later spread to his spine, lungs and back.
Gilbert kept fans updated on his health journey. Last month, he shared on Instagram that he had to go the emergency room and got 4.5 liters of fluid in his lungs drained.
New Found Glory members include singer Jordan Pundik, bass player Ian Grushka, and drummer Cyrus Bolooki.
They’re best known for their hits like 2002’s “My Friends Over You” and 2000’s “Hit or Miss.”
Gilbert was previously married to Paramore’s Hayley Williams. They married in February 2016 and split in July 2017.
He was also married to musician Sherri DuPree, but they split in 2007 after less than a year of marriage.