Chad Gilbert, New Found Glory Guitarist, Dies at 45
The punk rock band announced the death of their founding member, who had recently returned to the stage after brain surgery.
Chad Gilbert, the lead guitarist and founding member of the punk rock band New Found Glory, has died at the age of 45. His former bandmates announced his death on Sunday in an Instagram post, stating that he passed away peacefully in his sleep surrounded by friends and family.
'We are devastated and shocked by how quickly he left us, yet so grateful for how peacefully and smoothly he went,' the band wrote in their statement. 'The amount of visitors that crowded the hospital lobby at a moment’s notice is a testament to how beloved and cherished Chad was, and always will be.'
The announcement, credited to Gilbert's widow Lisa Cimorelli and his bandmates Jordan Pundik, Ian Grushka, Cyrus Bolooki, and touring guitarist Dan O'Connor, comes three months after Gilbert made a tearful return to the stage. This return followed surgery to remove three brain tumors.
Gilbert's wife Lisa Cimorelli and his bandmates stated that his 'guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive' were instrumental in shaping New Found Glory for nearly three decades. They added that his influence would forever be a part of the band.
'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 continued. '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.'
The post concluded with, 'Rest in peace, Chad. We love you forever ❤️.'
The announcement also noted that Gilbert is survived by his wife Lisa, his daughter Lily, his mother Jackie, and his brother Brian.
