It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bob Weir, founding member and rhythm guitarist of the legendary rock band Grateful Dead, at the age of 78. Bob Weir died peacefully on January 10, 2026, due to complications from underlying lung issues following his recovery from cancer diagnosed in the summer of 2025.
Born Robert Hall Weir on October 16, 1947, in San Francisco, California, Bob Weir co-founded the Grateful Dead in 1965 alongside Jerry Garcia, Ron "Pigpen" McKernan, Phil Lesh, and Bill Kreutzmann.
Over the band's three-decade run, Weir's distinctive rhythm guitar style, soulful vocals, and songwriting contributions helped define the psychedelic rock era and created a cultural phenomenon that transcended music.
Iconic songs such as "Sugar Magnolia," "Playing in the Band," and "Truckin,'" many co-written by Weir became anthems for generations of fans, known affectionately as Deadheads.
Weir's influence extended far beyond the Grateful Dead. After the band's dissolution in 1995 following Garcia's death, he continued performing with offshoots like The Other Ones, The Dead, Furthur, and Dead & Company, where he collaborated with artists including John Mayer.
His solo career and side projects, such as RatDog and Bobby and the Midnites, showcased his versatility across rock, folk, and bluegrass genres. Weir was also a passionate advocate for environmental causes, supporting organizations like the Rainforest Action Network and HeadCount, which promotes voter registration.
"Bob was more than a musician; he was a force of nature, a storyteller, and a bridge between eras of American music," said Mickey Hart, fellow Grateful Dead founding member and drummer. "His spirit will live on in every chord we play and every gathering of fans who found community through his work."
Weir is survived by his wife, Natascha Münter, and their two daughters, as well as an extended family of bandmates, collaborators, and millions of devoted fans worldwide.
Details on memorial services will be announced in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Rex Foundation, established by the Grateful Dead to support arts, environmental, and social causes.
The Grateful Dead's legacy endures through its timeless music, innovative live performances, and the unbreakable bond with its community. Bob Weir's contributions will forever resonate in the hearts of those who experienced the magic he helped create.