SAN FRANCISCO — A massive crowd gathered at Civic Center on Saturday to honor the late Bob Weir, a pivotal figure in the music scene as a founding member of the Grateful Dead. Weir passed away last week at the age of 78, prompting fans and musicians to pay tribute to a legacy that transformed American rock music.

The event featured heartfelt speeches from notable musicians like Joan Baez and John Mayer, who shared their cherished memories of Weir’s influence. The ceremony began with a prayer delivered by Buddhist monks, setting a reflective tone as attendees carried long-stemmed red roses and placed them at an altar adorned with photographs and candles. Scribes among the crowd wrote notes on colorful paper, expressing gratitude and heartfelt messages, while many asked Weir to greet fellow icons Jerry Garcia and Phil Lesh, both of whom had passed away earlier.

“I’m here to honor Bob Weir and help him find his way home,” said Ruthie Garcia, a long-time fan who first discovered the band in 1989. As the celebration unfolded, the audience reflected a vibrant tapestry of Weir’s admirers, ranging from the long-time Deadheads sporting dreadlocks and tie-dye apparel to younger generations discovering his music for the first time.

The Grateful Dead, which originally formed as the Warlocks in San Francisco in 1965, was renowned for its improvisational performances that blended elements of blues, jazz, country, and psychedelia. Weir contributed vocals and instrumental talent to timeless tracks such as “Sugar Magnolia,” “One More Saturday Night,” and “Mexicali Blues.” Over the years, his appearance evolved, incorporating a long beard reminiscent of Garcia’s later look.

Darla Sagos flew in from Seattle to partake in the public celebration, noting a sense of foreboding after the lack of new concert announcements following a series of performances in summer 2022. “We were hoping everything would be alright,” she reflected. “We will keep the music alive; we’ll pass it on to our grandson.” Her sentiments echoed a collective resolve among fans to carry on Weir’s musical spirit.

Weir’s family was present at the tribute, joining fans in remembering the guitarist who was known not only for his musical prowess but for his belief that music fosters unity among people. His daughter Monet spoke to the unexpected nature of his passing, revealing he overcame cancer but succumbed to underlying lung issues. “He always wanted our music and legacy to continue,” she shared.

In the wake of his death, fans are determined to ensure that the essence of the Grateful Dead endures — a testament to a musician whose artistry bridged generations and genres.