Drummer of Acclaimed Band Manchester Orchestra, Timothy Very, Passes Away at 42
The Australian music community is mourning the sudden and unexpected loss of Timothy Very, the dynamic drummer for the highly regarded Atlanta-based band Manchester Orchestra. Very, aged 42, passed away this past Saturday, with the band announcing the heartbreaking news via social media. As of reporting, the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
The band, known for their powerful and emotive sound, expressed profound shock and disbelief at the passing of their bandmate, whom they affectionately referred to as “brother.” In a deeply moving statement shared with fans, the Manchester Orchestra family conveyed their devastation.
“The entire Manchester Orchestra family has been devastated by the sudden passing of our brother, Timothy Very,” the statement read. “He was the most beloved human being any of us were lucky enough to know in this life. We’ve all been dreading sharing this news as we are all still in absolute disbelief.”
Timothy Very joined Manchester Orchestra in 2011, filling the drum stool following the departure of Jeremiah Edmond. His impactful debut with the group was on that year’s critically acclaimed album, Simple Math. He went on to be a consistent and vital presence, featuring on every subsequent release from the band. His most recent contribution to their discography was on the 2023 EP, The Valley Of Vision.
The band further elaborated on Very’s indelible impact, highlighting his remarkable personality. “Tim was instantly likable and interacted with everyone he met with kindness and warmth,” they shared in another heartfelt post. “His laugh was infectious, and he immediately made people feel invited and encouraged. His humour and energy were the very foundation that held together the entire MO universe.”
They continued to paint a vivid picture of his character: “Strangers quickly became friends, and friends became family. He had an undeniable light that was only matched by his dedication and love for his craft, which he was clearly put on earth to do. No words can ever do him justice.”
The band’s tribute emphasized the deep personal connections Very fostered. “Please know, if you are someone who loved Tim, he loved you too,” they assured fans. “The only thing that Tim loved more than creating music was being with his family. You’d be pressed to find a more joyful dad. We love you Tim, thank you for loving us. You are a force of positivity that will be a constant presence in the rest of our days.”
Born on November 22, 1983, in Pensacola, Florida, Very’s musical journey led him to form a strong bond with Manchester Orchestra bassist Andy Prince from a young age. Before becoming a cornerstone of Manchester Orchestra, he was an integral part of the San Diego-based band Waking Ashland.
His final live performance with Manchester Orchestra took place in November 2025 at The Eastern in Atlanta, a poignant farewell performance for fans.
Following the tragic news, the outpouring of grief and respect from friends and fans has been immense. Tributes flooded social media platforms, each echoing the profound impact Timothy Very had on those around him.
- “Incredibly sad. Tim was an absolute legend. So sorry. Praying for all yall.”
- “Heartbreaking. He was such a ray of light, such a force of joy and positivity, and so unbelievably talented. He was truly one of one. Love you guys. I’m so sorry.”
- “The kindest person – full of energy and such a light to everyone around him.”
- “Heartbroken… love you all dearly, it was an honour to experience his light.”
- “No one left an impression like Tim. Someone I would think about and smile. His laugh carried weight. Thinking of the Manchester family.”
- “I just can’t believe it. I loved Tim so much. I’ve ever met another person on tour that kept in touch the way he did with such positivity. He’d call just to hype me up and tell me to just keep going for it. His positivity lit up every room we ever shared. I’ll be praying for his family and his children.”
Timothy Very’s legacy extends beyond his musical contributions; it is deeply woven into the fabric of the relationships he built and the joy he so readily shared. His absence will undoubtedly be felt profoundly within the music industry and by the countless individuals whose lives he touched with his infectious energy and genuine warmth.
