Jeffrey F. Herbas

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jeffrey F. Herbas, who died peacefully surrounded by family on February 23rd, 2025. He was 40 years old.
The youngest of four siblings, Jeff was born in Evergreen Park, Illinois on February 4th, 1985 to Oscar Herbas and Patricia Mungovan Herbas. He attended St. Linus School in Oak Lawn, Illinois, excelling in math and soccer, among other sports. Jeff graduated from Marist High School in 2003, where he was captain of the varsity soccer team. Jeff attended the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois, graduating in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy.
In his twenties, Jeff moved to Cochabamba, Bolivia, where his father was born and raised. There he volunteered at Salomon Klein Orphanage, a safe haven for at-risk children from newborns to six-year-olds, and was named "Volunteer of the Year." Through his volunteer work, Jeff discovered a lifelong passion for the education of children, which ultimately led to a career in education.
In 2013, Jeff began teaching sixth grade math and science at the American International School of Bolivia (AISB). Following his first year of teaching, he was named "Teacher of the Year." Jeff went on to spend seven more years teaching middle school math and science, teaching hundreds of students that math can be fun. In 2019, he was recognized by the National Association of Private Schools of Cochabamba. Jeff's dedication caught the attention of AISB leadership, and in 2020 he was promoted to Middle School Coordinator, a transition to education administration that reflected the school's plans for Jeff's future at the school. He served in that capacity until 2022, when he left the role to focus on his health following his cancer diagnosis.
During his time at AISB, Jeff met Vera Bentley, a fellow sixth grade teacher who became the love of his life. Following Jeff's diagnosis, the pair moved to the Chicago suburbs to facilitate Jeff's treatment. In the three years that followed, Vera provided him constant strength and support during his cancer treatment. Jeff faced his diagnosis and treatment with strength and resilience. He continued to do what he loved: teaching, this time as a substitute in Chicago schools, where he was a particularly helpful resource to Spanish-speaking students new the U.S. He spent his free time with Vera and the rest of his family and particularly enjoyed connecting with his young nieces and nephews.
Jeff had a gentle spirit and easy-going nature, making friends wherever he went. He was interested in learning and believed in continually trying to challenge himself; he taught his students to do the same. He spoke Spanish, traveled extensively throughout South America and Europe, and was fiercely proud of his American, Bolivian, and Irish roots. Throughout his travels, he stayed connected to his family in Chicago, closely following their milestones from afar, careful to visit for the important events in their lives. Jeff carved his own unique path and was well-known in his community for treating everyone with kindness and respect.
Jeff was a devoted partner, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend, and teacher. He will be lovingly remembered by his best friend and significant other, Vera Bentley; his parents, Oscar Herbas and Patricia Mungovan Herbas; his siblings Joe (Frances Cruz) Herbas, Rick (Bridget) Herbas, and Christine (Angelo Suozzi) Herbas; his nieces and nephews, including Matt Herbas; his many aunts and uncles, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly; and countless students whose lives have been enriched by his dedication to their learning.
Visitation Wednesday, March 5, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Curley Funeral Home, 6116 W. 111th Street, Chicago Ridge, IL; Thursday, March 6, 2025, Guests will meet directly at St. Linus Parish,10300 S. Lawler, Oak Lawn, IL for Mass at 11:00 a.m.; For Funeral info (708) 422-2700, or www.curleyfuneralhome.com.