Chad Gilbert, the co-founder and lead guitarist of New Found Glory, has died at 45. According to a statement shared on his social media, he passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 20, surrounded by friends and family, with his wife Lisa and his mother Jackie by his side.
Chad’s story is one of relentless determination. He was diagnosed with a rare tumour called pheochromocytoma in 2021, and the illness later progressed to stage four adrenocortical carcinoma. In 2026, he underwent emergency brain surgery after three tumours were found. Even so, he helped write and record the band’s latest album“Listen Up!”, which dropped in February, and in July he returned to the stage in Nashville, performing from a mobility scooter because nothing could keep him from the fans.
His bandmates said in a statement that his influence will always be part of New Found Glory and his spirit will be felt on every stage they stand on. He leaves behind his wife, daughter Lily, mother and brother, and a whole generation of listeners who grew up on his riffs. What’s the New Found Glory song you’ll be playing in his honor today?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.