‘Grateful Dead’ Bob Weir breathes his last at 78

Bob Weir has passed away at 78 after a longstanding battle with a deadly disease

By Aamna Razi January 11, 2026
‘Grateful Dead’ Bob Weir breathes his last at 78
‘Grateful Dead’ Bob Weir breathes his last at 78

Bob Weir, the founding member of the band Grateful Dead, has died at 78, as confirmed by a social media post made by the singer’s family.

The cause of death, along with other details of the songwriter’s passing on January 10 were laid bare in the heartbreaking statement announcing the music icon’s death.

In the statement made on Instagram about the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer was “It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Bobby Weir. He transitioned peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, after courageously beating cancer as only Bobby could.”

The note added that Bob succumbed to underlying lung issues, after the musician revealed his cancer diagnosis in July of 2025.

“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,” the statement continued.

Bob’s family requested privacy during this time, and also expressed gratitude for all the people offering their condolences and support and ultimately poetically reminded fans that the singer lives on through his legacy.

How old was Bob Weir when he joined the Grateful Dead?

Bob was 17 when he joined the band Grateful Dead in 1965.

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