Bob Weir, Grateful Dead Founding Member, Dies at 78 of ‘Lung Issues’ After ‘Beating Cancer’: ‘There Is No Final Curtain Here’

Bob Weir — guitarist, songwriter, and a founding member of the Grateful Dead — has died. He was 78.

Weir’s team shared the news in a statement posted to his official Instagram account on Saturday, Jan. 10.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Bobby Weir,” the statement began.

“He transitioned peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, after courageously beating cancer as only Bobby could,” the statement continued, adding that the musician ultimately “succumbed to underlying lung issues.”

No further details were immediately available about where Weir was at the time of his death.

The statement also reflected on Weir’s enduring influence: “Bobby will forever be a guiding force whose unique artistry reshaped American music. His work did more than fill rooms with music; it was warm sunlight that filled the soul, building a community, a language, and a feeling of family that generations of fans carry with them.”

According to the tribute, Weir was diagnosed with cancer in July 2025.

“He began treatment only weeks before returning to his hometown stage for a three-night celebration of 60 years of music at Golden Gate Park,” the statement said.

The family requested privacy as they mourn. “His loving family … request privacy during this difficult time and offer their gratitude for the outpouring of love, support and remembrance,” the statement added.

The message closed with a final note to fans: “May we honor him not only in sorrow, but in how bravely we continue with open hearts, steady steps, and the music leading us home. Hang it up and see what tomorrow brings,” the statement concluded.

Formed in 1965, the Grateful Dead became one of the most influential bands in American music, known for their boundary-pushing sound and devoted fan community.

Weir received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007 and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. He is also “the recipient of both the Les Paul Spirit Award and the Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award,” according to his official website.

Beyond music, the site notes Weir was “deeply committed to social impact” and “a longtime supporter of HeadCount, a non-partisan organization that uses music to register voters and promote civic participation.”

He also served as a United Nations Development Program Goodwill Ambassador and co-founded the Furthur Foundation, which supports environmental, social, and cultural causes through grants and partnerships.

Weir is survived by his wife, Natascha, and their two daughters, Shala Monet and Chloe Kaelia.