Chad Gilbert, the founding member and lead guitarist of the punk rock band New Found Glory, has passed away at the age of 45. His death was announced by the band and his wife, Lisa Cimorelli, through a joint Instagram post. Although the cause of death was not disclosed, Gilbert had been battling adrenal cancer since 2021 and underwent brain surgery in February for tumors found by doctors.
The announcement read, “On the morning of September 20th, Chad Everett Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep. He left this world surrounded by friends and family and took his final breaths with his wife and mother by his side, exactly as he wished.”
Gilbert was a beloved musician known not only for his musical accomplishments but also for his dedication as a husband and father. He is survived by his wife, Lisa, his daughter, Lily, his mother, Jackie, and his brother, Brian.
“We are devastated and shocked by how quickly he left us, yet so grateful for how peacefully and smoothly he went,” the statement noted. “The amount of visitors in the hospital lobby at a moment’s notice demonstrates how beloved and cherished Chad was.”
New Found Glory, including members Jordan Pundik, Ian Grushka, and Cyrus Bolooki, shared a tribute to Gilbert’s lasting impact on the band.
“Chad’s guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive helped shape New Found Glory for nearly three decades,” they recalled. “Through more than a dozen albums and endless tours around the world, Chad challenged all of us to grow as musicians, performers, and human beings.”
The band further expressed their grief while appreciating the life he led and the memories they shared. “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.”
Gilbert was open about his struggle with stage 4 adrenal cancer, initially diagnosed in 2021. The disease spread to his spine, lungs, and brain. He was first diagnosed with metastatic pheochromocytoma, a rare cancer of the adrenal gland. In February, after experiencing weakness and difficulty walking, doctors discovered three brain tumors, leading to emergency surgery.
In March, Gilbert shared his recovery progress, stating, “I am feeling much better now and getting stronger by the day.” By June, he had returned to the stage during a New Found Glory tour stop in Nashville. During this performance, he used a mobility scooter and was greeted with emotional support from his family and medical team.
Gilbert shared his life with Lisa Cimorelli since their marriage in 2020 and had one daughter, Lily, aged 5. He had previous marriages with singers Sherri DuPree and Hayley Williams. Gilbert co-founded New Found Glory in 1997 and achieved fame with their 2002 breakthrough album, “Sticks and Stones.” The album, featuring hits like “My Friends Over You,” peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Outside of New Found Glory, Gilbert was known for his hardcore musical contributions, including working with Shai Hulud, International Superheroes of Hardcore, and producing for artists such as A Day to Remember and State Champs.
He is remembered by family and bandmates for his extraordinary courage and contributions to music.