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Grateful Dead's singer-songwriter-guitarist Bob Weir passed away on January 10. The 78-year-old was a key figure in the American rock band Grateful Dead,
having formed the group with fellow musicians Jerry Garcia, Phil Lesh, Bill Kreutzmann, and Ron "Pigpen" McKernan since 1965. His family announced on Instagram that Weir died following a battle with cancer and other lung complications. The guitarist received a cancer diagnosis in July 2025. Music icon Bob Dylan also released a statement reflecting on Weir's influence on his own career. Dylan mentioned Weir's generosity and support during a challenging time when his child was diagnosed with kidney disease.
Bob Weir passes away at 78
Weir's family shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, revealing that he had bravely fought cancer but ultimately "succumbed to underlying lung complications." The post continued, "For more than sixty years, Bobby traveled the roads. A guitarist, singer, storyteller, and founding member of the Grateful Dead. Bobby will always be a guiding light whose distinctive artistry transformed American music."
Weir is survived by his spouse Natascha and daughters Monet and Chloe. His family has requested privacy and expressed gratitude to fans for their love and remembrance of Weir.
Bob Dylan honors Bob Weir
In a heartfelt statement, Bob Dylan expressed his profound sorrow over Weir's passing. He wrote, "He inspired me in countless ways as a musician, an activist, an athlete, and most importantly, a friend. We shared the stage numerous times, and he was always enthusiastic, incredibly curious, and willing to try anything. The first time we performed together was at a Peace Concert my team organized following the events of 9/11. We were accompanied by Flea on bass and Woody Harrelson on vocals. Bobby appeared like a child in a candy store, playing with such an eclectic group. I was amazed that a true giant in music took the time to stand in a park with a few hundred people and help us convey a musical message of peace."
The singer-songwriter highlighted Weir's naturally kind spirit, stating, "He profoundly moved me with the compassion he showed for me and my family at The Sweetwater in Mill Valley. On that day, we had just learned that my middle child had been diagnosed with a kidney disease that would eventually require a transplant. I was devastated. Bobby came backstage before the performance, spoke with me, and sat with me as I cried. I will never forget that moment."
More about Bob Weir
Weir released three solo albums, including the 1972 record Ace. He was also involved in various band side projects such as Kingfish, Bobby and the Midnites, and RatDog, and performed under the group names the Other Ones, the Dead, and Furthur after the band disbanded following Garcia's death in 1995. In 1994, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Grateful Dead.
