Chad Gilbert Passes Away at 45, New Found Glory Guitarist's Band Announces News

Chad Gilbert, the founding guitarist of New Found Glory, has sadly passed away.

The musician died on Sunday morning (September 20) at the age of 45 following a years-long battle with cancer.

Chad‘s wife Lisa Cimorelli and his New Found Glory bandmates announced the news in a joint statement shared on Instagram.

New Found Glory Announces Chad Gilbert’s Passing

“On the morning of September 20th, Chad Everett Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep,” the statement began. “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.”

“We are devastated and shocked by how quickly he left us, yet so grateful for how peacefully and smoothly he went,” they continued.

The statement noted that Chad was surrounded by loved ones at the hospital and remembered him as both a musician and family man.

“He was a legendary musician, but his favorite accomplishment was being a husband and father. His biggest dreams came true,” the statement continued.

Chad is survived by his wife Lisa, daughter Lily, mother Jackie and brother Brian.

New Found Glory Remembers Chad Gilbert’s Legacy

Chad co-founded New Found Glory in 1997 and remained the band’s lead guitarist for nearly three decades.

“Chad‘s guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive helped shape New Found Glory for nearly three decades,” his bandmates said in their statement.

They added, “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.”

Chad Gilbert Had Been Battling Cancer

Chad had been open about his health struggles in recent years.

He was diagnosed with a rare form of adrenal gland cancer called pheochromocytoma in 2021 and underwent surgery. The cancer later returned and spread to other parts of his body.

Earlier this year, Chad underwent brain surgery after doctors discovered tumors in his brain.

Chad was previously married to Paramore singer Hayley Williams. The former couple married in 2016 and announced their separation in 2017.

Our thoughts are with Chad‘s family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. We have sadly lost many stars in 2026.

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