Chad Gilbert of New Found Glory Passes Away at 45

Chad Gilbert, who was the founding member and lead guitarist of the punk rock band New Found Glory, has passed away at the age of 45. This sad news was shared by the band along with Gilbert’s wife, Lisa Cimorelli, in a joint post on Instagram.

The cause of death was not specified in the announcement. However, it is known that Gilbert had been battling adrenal cancer since 2021 and had undergone brain surgery earlier this year after tumors were discovered.

“On the morning of September 20th, Chad Everett Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep,” the statement read. “He left this world surrounded by friends and family, with his wife and mother by his side, just as he wished.”

The family expressed their devastation over the loss, mentioning that the outpouring of support in the hospital was a testament to how beloved Gilbert was. They noted that, although he was a talented musician, his greatest pride was in being a husband and a father. Survived by his wife, daughter, mother, and brother, Gilbert’s family reflected on the love and memory he leaves behind.

New Found Glory members, including lead singer Jordan Pundik, bassist Ian Grushka, and drummer Cyrus Bolooki, honored Gilbert’s lasting impact on the band and the strong personal relationships they shared. They expressed gratitude for his guitar skills, humor, and push for constant improvement over nearly three decades of music-making.

“Chad’s contributions were pivotal to shaping New Found Glory,” they wrote. “His spirit will continue to influence us on stage and in our music.” They ended their tribute with a heartfelt, “Rest in peace, Chad. We love you forever.”

Gilbert had been vocal about his fight with stage four adrenal cancer, which was diagnosed in 2021. Initially, he learned that he had a rare adrenal gland tumor called metastatic pheochromocytoma. His condition worsened when doctors discovered tumors in his spine, lungs, and brain.

In a previous interview, he mentioned feeling weak and having trouble walking while promoting New Found Glory’s latest album. After a collapse at home led to a CT scan that revealed three brain tumors, Gilbert underwent emergency surgery. Following treatment, he shared optimism about his recovery process, stating he was feeling stronger.

Gilbert made a memorable return to the stage in June, performing with New Found Glory during a show in Nashville. He expressed how emotional it felt to play again, especially in front of his young daughter and supportive family.

Born on March 9, 1981, in Coral Springs, Florida, Gilbert helped establish New Found Glory in 1997. The band gained fame with their 2002 album “Sticks and Stones,” which featured popular tracks such as “My Friends Over You.” Over the years, New Found Glory became a significant figure in the pop-punk genre, releasing numerous albums and touring extensively.

Outside of the band, Gilbert was involved in hardcore music and produced for several other artists, illustrating his broad influence within the music industry.

Chad Gilbert will be deeply missed, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate with fans and musicians alike.