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San Francisco ‘Homecoming’ Draws Thousands to Honor Grateful Dead Co-Founder Bob Weir

The ceremony highlighted a legacy of community that supporters say will carry his music forward.

Overview

  • Thousands filled Civic Center Plaza on Jan. 17 for “Homecoming: Celebrating the Life of Bobby Weir,” following a short procession down Market Street.
  • Fans laid roses and mementos at an altar as the Wharf Rats handed out flowers at the family’s request.
  • Joan Baez, John Mayer, Mayor Daniel Lurie and Nancy Pelosi offered tributes, Buddhist monks opened with a prayer, and video messages included Willie Nelson.
  • Mayer performed an acoustic “Ripple” and delivered a eulogy that emphasized Weir’s mentorship and the tight-knit Deadhead community.
  • The event was livestreamed on Instagram and YouTube, while local transit adjusted service; Weir’s family reiterated he died Jan. 10 at 78 from underlying lung issues after beating cancer and urged that the music continue.