Messianic Jewish Leader Eric Scott Verby Dies at 56, Remembered for Faith and Mental Health Advocacy

Eric Scott Verby, who dedicated much of his life to serving others through his work with Jews for Jesus and his passion for mental health advocacy, passed away on June 2, 2026. He was born on September 7, 1969, in Panama City, Florida, to Harry and Alice Verby, and grew up in San Mateo, California. He was the eldest of three siblings.

Verby pursued his education at Crystal Springs Uplands School, graduating in 1987, followed by a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts, in 1992. After college, he returned to the San Francisco Bay Area, eventually settling in San Francisco. His professional journey began in 1996 when he joined Jews for Jesus, where he held various roles over the course of 24 years, including shipping clerk, chief correspondent, and assistant research librarian. He also participated in the organization’s summer witnessing campaigns across the United States and was a member of the Jews for Jesus Singers.

Verby’s spiritual journey was deeply rooted in his Jewish heritage and his faith in Jesus Christ. He attended Covenant Presbyterian Church in Berkeley, California, where he met his wife, Jessica (Ng) Verby. The couple married on September 7, 2013, and later relocated to San Leandro, California, in 2022. Throughout his life, Verby was known for his compassion and commitment to helping others, particularly those struggling with mental health. He completed peer counseling training through BestNow! in 2016-2017 and worked with several organizations, including the Morton Bakar Center, Richmond Area Multi Services (RAMS), California Warm Line, CalHOPE Line, and Telecare Changes.

In addition to his professional and spiritual pursuits, Verby had a deep love for music, particularly rock and contemporary Christian genres. He was a skilled percussionist and drummer, contributing to worship teams at Jews for Jesus, Brit Hadasha Fellowship, and Celebrate Recovery. His talents extended to writing and poetry, and he was known for his eloquence in both word and song. His Jewish identity was an integral part of his life, and he remained passionate about sharing his faith in Jesus Christ with others.

Eric is survived by his wife, Jessica Verby, his mother, Alice Verby, his brother, Joel Verby, and his sister, Lauren Verby-Malament. He was preceded in death by his father, Harry Verby. A memorial service celebrating his life and faith was held on July 11, 2026, at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Berkeley, California. His life reflects a commitment to service, faith, and compassion, embodying the biblical call to love mercy and walk humbly with God.

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