Cancer-Stricken Teacher Ben Ellis Died Days After Students’ Serenade

Ben Ellis, the Nashville teacher who was paid a musical visit by his students during his cancer battle, has died.

Ben Ellis Dies

Ellis, who had taught at Nashville’s Christ Presbyterian Academy, died Friday, the school’s headmaster Nate Morrow confirmed to CNN.

“He left these words for us, spoken over the students at his house, and I share them with you to guide us now,” Morrow said. “He said, ‘I love you. I believe now more than ever that God is good, and that He is with us. I am full of hope, peace and joy. I wish all this for you. Look to Jesus to know, to believe, and to be filled.'”

Earlier this month, 400 students and faculty members from Christ Presbyterian Academy, where Ellis had taught Latin and Bible Studies courses since 2008, serenaded him at his home. The high school students played instruments and sang outside on the beloved teacher’s lawn as he watched from a window.

“It was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen in my entire life,” Morrow told ABC News at the time. “He is one of the kindest and intentionally loving people I’ve ever met in my life. I think that’s what really characterizes him. He’s always pursuing other people in wanting to get to know them and love them.”

The video of the students and faculty members outside of Ellis’ home, posted by country singer Tim McGraw, has received more than 30 million views on Facebook.

McGraw, who had been sent the video of the students’ performance for Ellis, remembered the late teacher on Instagram. “The example of love and kindness that showed in his heart through his teaching has impacted so many of his students, and through them has and will continue to impact the world,” McGraw wrote. “Time well spent Mr. Ellis, time well spent sir….. rest now, for you shall be well received.”

Ellis is survived by a wife and five children.