Timothy Very, the drummer for Atlanta-based indie rock band Manchester Orchestra, has died at the age of 42. The band announced his “sudden passing” on Saturday, February 14, 2026, in a statement posted to social media.
“The entire Manchester Orchestra family has been devastated by the sudden passing of our brother, Timothy Very,” the band wrote. “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.”
The statement continued, describing Very as instantly likable, kind and warm. “His laugh was infectious and he immediately made people feel invited and encouraged. His humor and energy were the very foundation that held together the entire MO universe. Strangers quickly became friends and friends became family.” The band emphasized his dedication to his craft, stating he was “put on earth to do” what he did.
Manchester Orchestra also highlighted Very’s devotion to his family, saying, “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.”
Very joined Manchester Orchestra in 2011, becoming the group’s longest-serving drummer, having spent the past 15 years with the band. He first appeared on their 2011 album, Simple Math, replacing drummer Jeremiah Edmond. He subsequently played on the group’s studio albums: 2014’s Cope, 2017’s A Black Mile to the Surface, and 2021’s The Million Masks of God. Their most recent release was the 2023 EP, The Valley of Vision.
Prior to his work with Manchester Orchestra, Very was a founding member of the San Diego rock group Waking Ashland, which launched in 2003.
As of February 16, 2026, the cause of death has not been disclosed. The band described the passing as “sudden,” leaving fans and fellow musicians reeling from the loss.
News of Very’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from the music community. He is remembered not only for his musical talent but also for his warmth, kindness, and positive spirit.
