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Rock Guitarist Chad Gilbert Dies at 45 After Cancer Battle
20 Sep
Summary
- New Found Glory guitarist Chad Gilbert passed away on Sunday, September 20th.
- He battled a rare adrenal cancer since 2021, undergoing emergency brain surgery.
- Gilbert cherished being a husband and father, calling it his greatest dream.

Chad Gilbert, a foundational guitarist and co-founder of the rock band New Found Glory, has passed away at the age of 45. His death was announced on Sunday, September 20th, by his bandmates and wife, Lisa Cimorelli.
Gilbert had been bravely fighting a rare form of adrenal cancer, metastatic pheochromocytoma, since 2021. This journey included an emergency brain surgery earlier in the year after he collapsed at home.
Despite the immense challenges, Gilbert found profound fulfillment in his personal life. He frequently expressed that achieving his dream of being a loving husband and father to his daughter, Lily, was his greatest accomplishment, surpassing his successful music career.
His contributions to New Found Glory were immense, shaping the band's sound for nearly thirty years through numerous albums and global tours. His bandmates remembered him as a relentless force who inspired growth and left an indelible mark on their music and lives.
Gilbert's passion extended beyond his own family; he found purpose in inspiring others facing adversity, sharing how his painful journey allowed him to connect with and encourage people through difficult times.
He is survived by his wife, daughter, mother, and brother.