A Nashville teacher who was serenaded by his students in a viral video has passed away after a battle with cancer.
Ben Ellis, a teacher at Christ Presbyterian Academy, passed away Friday morning, according to an email sent to CPA parents.
“With deep sadness and a very heavy heart, I write to tell you that our beloved Ben Ellis has passed away. Since last December, millions of people around the world have prayed for Ben to be healed of his cancer. Today, Ben entered Heaven fully healed; he is home,” CPA Headmaster Nate Morrow said in the letter.
Ellis’ story got international attention after country singer Tim McGraw posted on his Facebook page a 56-second video of Ellis watching from his window of more than 400 students, parents and faculty sing a worship song.
Since September 10, the video has more than 29 million views and has been shared more than 500,000 times.
Headmaster Morrow went on to say that Ellis spoke to the students outside his house, telling them:
“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.”
Ellis was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer last December and had been working on and off. His condition had gotten worse and he recently decided to discontinue his treatment.
Visitation for Ellis has been planned for 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday at Christ Presbyterian Church. A memorial service has been set for 3 p.m. Sunday, also at the church.
No additional details were provided.
