Jean Alvares

Dear Community and friends,
Jean Alvares, 69, of Bloomfield, passed away on Monday, January 13, 2024, at his home, surrounded by family and friends after more than a year and a half of battling illness. Born in Staten Island, NY, he was the son of the late Joaquin Alvares and Edna L. Olsen. He grew up in Palatka, Putnam County, Florida. Initially studying mechanics, he later discovered his passion for Classics, earning a B.A. in Classics from the University of Florida, a master's degree in Latin, and a Ph.D. in Classics from the University of Texas. He began his academic career as a visiting assistant professor at the College of Charleston and Franklin & Marshall College before joining Montclair State University, where he dedicated nearly 30 years of his life to teaching and scholarship.
Dr. Alvares was a versatile scholar whose work focused on the social, political, historical contexts of ancient Greek and Roman novels and modern movies. In addition to his role as department chair, he played a pivotal role in the University Senate, contributing significantly as Chair of the Academic Affairs Committee and Corresponding Secretary for two decades.
A passionate traveler, Dr. Alvares presented at numerous professional conferences worldwide and visited approximately 20 countries. During his time at MSU (1996–2003), he taught over 19 different courses covering literature, culture, and languages. He was known for using a variety of teaching tools to reach and inspire students.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Dr. Alvares found joy in gardening. He was actively involved with Pulaski Park Gardens, where he dedicated countless hours to cultivating vegetable beds, even bringing ice from his home refrigerator to cool fresh vegetables, which help donate to the Church on the Green Food Bank.
He was also a devoted cat lover, often caring for three to five cats at a time and ensuring they received the best care.
Dr. Alvares is survived by his wife, Ling Fan; his stepson, Mingsong Chen; and his half-sisters, Karen Alvares and Rosemary Alvares.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 1, from 2:00 – 6:00 PM at O'Boyle Funeral Home, 309 Broad St., Bloomfield, NJ. If you are unable to attend, you are welcome to share your condolences online at Jean Alvares' memorial page.