New Found Glory Guitarist Chad Gilbert Dies at 45 After Cancer Battle

The pop-punk community is heartbroken today. Chad Gilbert, the longtime guitarist for New Found Glory, has died at 45 after a years-long battle with cancer. The band announced the news on social media, sharing that he passed peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by friends and family, with his wife Lisa Cimorelli and his mother by his side.

Gilbert had been open about his health journey, and in March he underwent brain surgery to remove three tumors. In their statement, the band and Lisa said they were devastated and shocked by how quickly he left them, yet grateful that his passing was peaceful. He is survived by his wife, his daughter Lily, his mother Jackie, and his brother Brian.

Beyond the riffs and the records, Gilbert’s bandmates remembered him as someone whose favorite accomplishment was being a husband and a father. Fans across the scene have been sharing their favorite NFG memories and lyrics all day. What New Found Glory song means the most to you? Drop it in the comments and we’ll spin a tribute set this week.