‘Ave atque vale’: Former MHS Latin teacher dies after battle with ALS
Jennifer Chavez, who taught Latin at Marblehead High School for years, has passed away after a battle with ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Friends and former colleagues at MHS posted about her death on social media with the Latin phrase, “Ave atque vale,” which means “I salute you and goodbye.” The saying was used in eulogies to Roman heroes.
“Jennifer was our rock,” Spanish teacher Candice Sliney told the Current. “Her kind and compassionate personality combined with her wit made her an absolute joy to be around. She was always teaching us, we turned to her for so much support.”
Former MHS Latin teacher Jennifer Chavez, center, is surrounded by friends and teachers, left to right, Andrea West, Candice Sliney, Mary Francois, Elmer Magaña, Holly Grose and Laura Alvarez last Oc...