UPDATE: Thousands of fans gathered Saturday, September 30, 2023, in San Francisco to pay tribute to the legendary Grateful Dead guitarist Bobby Weir, who passed away earlier this year. The memorial event, dubbed “Homecoming,” saw attendees celebrating Weir’s life and legacy under the bright Bay Area sky, filled with tie-dye shirts and flowers.
Fans from all over, including Southern California and Eugene, Oregon, came together to honor Weir, who died on January 10, 2023, after battling lung issues related to cancer. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as crowds clapped, played tambourines, and chanted, “you know my love will not fade away.”
“It’s about love,” said Eric Hoffner, 66, of Los Gatos, who has followed the band since 1976. He emphasized the unity felt in the crowd, stating, “You could see people from all walks of life… all getting along.” This sentiment resonated throughout the event, highlighting Weir’s impact on a generation of fans known as Deadheads.
Weir co-founded the Grateful Dead in 1965 in Palo Alto, California, and helped create a devoted fanbase through constant touring and unique performances. The music of the Grateful Dead not only built a community but also inspired fans to live with kindness and connection.
One fan, Magnolia Grieco, 37, drove over six hours from Santa Monica to pay her respects. “If this music has been a part of your life, I can’t imagine how you couldn’t be here,” she shared, noting the generational ties that the music created within her family.
The memorial featured heartfelt speeches and messages from family, friends, and notable figures. Nancy Pelosi, former Speaker of the House, described Weir as “a force of nature” and a “great dreamer,” stating that his legacy would resonate forever.
“The music will never stop… the love will not fade,”
Pelosi said, evoking tears from the audience.
Musician John Mayer, who played alongside Weir in Dead and Company, praised him as a mentor and community builder. “Thank you maestro, you’ve changed my life,” Mayer expressed, visibly emotional as he spoke of Weir’s profound influence.
The celebration also included contributions from the Gyuto monks, who chanted in saffron robes, and video messages from artists like Willie Nelson. Mickey Hart, Weir’s bandmate, recalled the joy and laughter Weir brought to their music, asserting, “He was singular… not a copy of anyone before.”
Weir’s family, including his wife Natscha Münter and daughters Chloe and Monet Weir, concluded the event, emphasizing his role not just as a musician but as an activist. Monet Weir highlighted her father’s advocacy for human rights, urging the audience to continue listening to music as a means to foster unity.
As the event drew to a close, attendees joined together in a moving rendition of “Ripple,” with bubbles rising above the crowd. The lyrics resonated deeply, encapsulating the essence of Weir’s enduring legacy:
“Would you hear my voice come through the music? Would you hold it near, as it were your own?”
The outpouring of love and remembrance at this memorial underscores not just the loss of a musical icon, but also the profound connection that Weir fostered among fans, making the world a better place through his art.
