Beloved Christ Presbyterian Academy Teacher Dies

NASHVILLE, TN — Ben Ellis, the beloved Latin and Bible teacher at Christ Presbyterian Academy whose story was at the center of a viral video of more than 400 students and faculty singing in his yard, has died, according to an email sent by CPA's headmaster to parents Friday morning.

"Ben was a gift to us all in the most unassuming and life-giving way. Even in the process of his death, he selflessly encouraged and empowered individuals to find life in Jesus," CPA headmaster Nathan Morrow wrote. "Now Ben and his Lord are fully together."

A video of the impromptu worship service in Ellis' yard about a week-and-a-half ago now has nearly 30 million views on Facebook, catching fire after it was shared by country music superstar Tim McGraw. Ellis had decided to forego further treatment for esophageal cancer, prompting the trip by the students and staff. The video shows him, though weakened by the cancer and bald from his treatment, smiling and even quietly singing along with the students.