"Hayley Williams’ Heartfelt Tribute to Ex-Husband Chad Gilbert: A Love Story That Defied Time"
Added on September 24, 2026 inFree CelebrityNews
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Singer Hayley Williams is stepping into the spotlight not just as the frontwoman of Paramore, but as a heartfelt friend reflecting on a profound loss. On September 23, she took to her Instagram Stories to honor her ex-husband, Chad Gilbert, the legendary guitarist of New Found Glory. Just days prior, on September 20, the music world was shaken with the news of Gilbert’s passing at the age of 45 after a long battle with cancer. Isn’t it something how the stars align to remind us of our past and the paths we’ve crossed? Williams’s emotional tribute dives into the depths of their intertwined lives—showcasing not just grief, but gratitude for the impact Gilbert had on her journey and the musical landscape that shaped a generation.
With an almost poetic touch, she describes him as a “legend in the scene,” highlighting the infinite ways their destinies intertwined. As we remember Gilbert, we reflect not only on his contribution to the music world but also on the connections we forge throughout our lives. Let’s delve deep into Hayley’s moving tribute and the legacy Chad leaves behind…
Singer Hayley Williams is paying tribute to her ex-husband Chad Gilbert. The Paramore frontwoman took to her Instagram Stories on Wednesday, September 23, to share her condolences for the New Found Glory musician’s passing. The band’s guitarist and co-founder passed away on Sunday, September 20, at age 45 after a years-long cancer battle.
On September 23, the “Simmer” singer took to her Instagram Stories in order to pay tribute to her ex-husband. They began dating in 2008 and became engaged in 2014. They married in February 2016 after nearly eight years together, but announced their split in 2017. The divorce was finalized later that year.
“Have not known what to say or if it’s appropriate,” she wrote. “But I feel sure now that I want to bc life is made of the paths we cross and the reasons we cross them are infinite.”
“Chad is indeed a legend in the scene and my time connected to him taught me a lot. He introduced me to people that continue to shape my life in beautiful ways, and to music and culture that has made life a lot richer,” she continued.
The “Misery Business” singer went on to say that “there isn’t much that hasn’t already been said about what he contributed to the musical world a lot of us grew up in.”
“His influence and attitude guided the genre forward. His passion for fostering the community was inspiring and sticks with me,” she added. “I will forever be grateful that from him I gained a deeper understanding and a reverence for the community and the culture of hardcore.”
She ended the post by writing, “Sending love and my sympathies to his family, NFG fam, and all his friends.”
Chad Gilbert’s death was announced on September 20, the day he died, by his wife, Lisa Cimorelli. In a lengthy Instagram post, the band wrote, “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, just as he wished. 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,” he continued. “He was a legendary musician, but his favorite accomplishment was being a husband and father. His biggest dreams came true. He is survived by his wife, Lisa, his daughter, Lily, his mother, Jackie, and his brother, Brian.”
The band continued: “Chad’s guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive helped shape New Found Glory for nearly three decades. Through more than a dozen albums, endless tours around the world, and more accolades than we ever could have imagined, Chad challenged all of us to grow as musicians, performers, and human beings.”
“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,” they concluded. “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.”
Many fans and famous friends took to the comments to pay their condolences.
Kellin Quinn Bostwick, the lead vocalist of the rock band Sleeping with Sirens, wrote, “I’m so so sorry for your loss guys! Glad I got to speak to Chad before he passed and thank him for his contribution to music! Your band helped me get into this scene! It brought me and my friends together. Wouldn’t be here without you. Rest in paradise my friend! Your fight, your kindness, your light! Thank you for all of it.”
Drummer Cyrus Bolooki added, “We lost one of the greats today. 30 years of doing this together and a lifetime of memories made in that time. Thankful for everything that we experienced together and forever grateful to have Chad in my life.”
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