Chad Everett Gilbert, founding member and lead guitarist of the punk rock band New Found Glory, died peacefully in his sleep on the morning of September 20 at the age of 45, according to a joint statement from his bandmates and wife, Lisa Cimorelli. He was surrounded by family and friends at the time of his passing, including his wife and mother. The statement did not disclose the cause of death but confirmed Gilbert had been battling adrenal cancer since 2021 and underwent brain surgery in February after tumors were discovered.
New Found Glory, formed in Florida in 1997, announced the news via Instagram alongside Cimorelli. The band described Gilbert as a legendary musician whose influence extended beyond his guitar playing and songwriting to his humor and relentless drive. Gilbert is survived by his wife, Lisa Cimorelli; daughter, Lily; mother, Jackie; and brother, Brian.
Bandmates and family express grief and gratitude
The statement from Gilbert’s bandmates—Jordan Pundik, Ian Grushka, Cyrus Bolooki, and touring guitarist Dan O’Connor—reflected deep sorrow and gratitude for his life. They wrote: “We are devastated and shocked by how quickly he left us, yet so grateful for how peacefully and smoothly he went. The amount of visitors that crowded the hospital lobby at a moment’s notice is a testament to how beloved and cherished Chad was, and always will be.”
Gilbert’s wife, Lisa Cimorelli, previously shared updates about his health, including his 2021 adrenal cancer diagnosis and subsequent Stage 4 adrenocortical carcinoma prognosis. In an interview with People magazine, she noted the diagnosis meant “a much shorter lifespan than he’s already lived.” Despite his health struggles, Gilbert continued to engage with fans, posting updates on his Instagram account as recently as recent months, including photos from hospital visits.
New Found Glory’s recent work and legacy
New Found Glory, known for hits like “My Friends Over You,” “Vicious Love,” and “Stay Awhile,” released their most recent album, “Listen Up!”, in February. The band had been on tour in recent months, with upcoming shows scheduled for October and November, including the Vans Warped Tour Orlando. Gilbert’s bandmates credited him with shaping the band’s sound and culture over nearly three decades, calling him “a brother in every sense of the word.”
Gilbert’s final public appearance included a tearful return to the stage in June, just three months after his brain surgery. His bandmates described the moment as a testament to his resilience and the deep bond shared among the group.
Tributes pour in from fans and peers
Following the announcement of Gilbert’s death, tributes began pouring in from fans, fellow musicians, and industry figures. Many highlighted his impact on the pop-punk genre and his role as a mentor to younger musicians. The band’s statement concluded: “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.*