Ancient Narrative: Sad news to share
Dear Readers,
Unfortunately, some sad news to share: Dr. Jean Alvares has passed away.
Edmund Cueva wrote the obituary below:
Jean Alvares (1954 – 2024)
Jean Alvares, a beloved scholar, educator, gardener, and devoted husband, passed away at home in Bloomfield, NJ, on January 16, 2024, after a long illness. He was 69 years old.
Born on Staten Island, NY, Jean was the son of the late Joaquin Alvares and Edna L. Olsen. He grew up in Palatka, Florida, initially pursuing mechanics before discovering his passion for Classics. This newfound calling led him to earn a B.A. in Classics from the University of Florida, followed by a master’s degree in Latin and a Ph.D. in Classics from the University of Texas.
Jean dedicated nearly 30 years of his life to Montclair State University, where he was a professor of Classics and Humanities, as well as a former department chair. He was an innovative and passionate educator, seamlessly blending the study of Greek and Roman history with modern storytelling and technology. Students and colleagues alike admired his ability to connect the past with the present, whether through lectures, theatrical productions, or his unique interpretations of classical mythology in contemporary culture. He also served in the University Senate for two decades, chairing the Academic Affairs Committee and contributing significantly to university governance.
Beyond academia, Jean was a man of many talents. He had an inquisitive mind, a deep love for programming and engineering, and an unwavering dedication to his community. A committed member of the Bloomfield Open Space Committee, he was instrumental in establishing community gardens at Pulaski and Milhouse Parks. He single-handedly constructed many of the elevated garden beds at Pulaski Park and ensured that fresh produce was donated to the Church on the Green Food Bank. His love for gardening reflected his hands-on approach to life—he was as comfortable working in the soil as he was exploring the depths of ancient civilizations.
Jean was also an avid traveler, presenting at professional conferences worldwide and visiting nearly 20 countries. His global perspective was further enriched by his relationship with Ling Fan, whom he met in 2012 while she was a visiting scholar at Montclair State University. For years, they maintained a long-distance relationship, with Jean traveling to China annually to lecture on Greek mythology. Their deep connection culminated in marriage in May 2024, and Ling joined him in Bloomfield in August of that year.
Jean’s generosity of spirit extended to all creatures, especially his beloved cats, for whom he cared with unwavering devotion.
He is survived by his loving wife, Ling Fan; his stepson, Mingsong Chen; and his half-sisters, Karen Alvares and Rosemary Alvares.
A private funeral was held on January 17, and a memorial service took place in February. Those who wish to honor Jean’s memory may do so by supporting local community gardens, food banks, or classical education initiatives—causes that he deeply cherished.
Jean Alvares was a scholar and a gardener, a mentor and a friend, a man equally at home in the world of ancient myths and in the rich soil of a community garden. His intellect, kindness, and boundless curiosity left an indelible mark on those who knew him, and his legacy will continue to inspire.
Edmund P. Cueva
