CHANGE OF LOCATION : A celebration of life will be held on Friday, December 14, 2018 at 1pm at the NORTH WINDHAM UNION CHURCH, 723 Roosevelt Trail, Windham, ME; not the Windham Chapel of Dolby Blais & Segee WINDHAM—David Charles Ezhaya, 70, passed away December 7, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. David was born October 4, 1948, in Waterville, the son of Bernard Ezhaya and Isabelle Ezhaya Ferris. He was a graduate of Waterville High School and continued to pursue higher education, earning both his Bachelor and Master Degrees from the University of Southern Maine. The importance of education was instilled in David at a young age, leading him to pursue a career as a teacher. David began teaching at Bonny Eagle High School in 1971, where he taught not only Government and U.S. History, but the invaluable lessons of perspective, compassion, and respect. David had an exceptional ability to see potential in each student, easily making him a favorite teacher and mentor for countless students. In addition to his work in the classroom, David was an advisor for many school groups, most notably the coach of the Mock Trial Team. A strong advocate of civil education, David was also passionate about human rights and the importance of studying topics from opposing angles. David happily retired in 2011 and was honored to deliver the commencement speech to the graduating class of Bonny Eagle High School. David was successful in many facets of life including his family. On June 4, 1976, he married Nancy Lebel and in 1983 they became parents to their daughter, Monica. One of the greatest joys in David's life was being "Papa" to his beloved granddaughters Pearl and Priya. David and Pearl had a special bond; he looked forward to their weekly trips to the library, volunteering at her school, and teaching the Junior Achievement Unit in Pearl's classroom. David will be remembered for his warm heart, devotion to education, and larger than life spirit. He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Nancy Ezhaya of Windham; daughter, Monica Rice and her husband Shannon of Yarmouth; granddaughters, Pearl and Priya; sisters, Elaine Nollet, Ann White, and Linda Bennett; nieces, Lisa Nollet, Lori Damon, and Amy Ezhaya; and nephews, John Nollet, Nicholas Nisbet, Paul Ezhaya, and Luke Rogers. David was predeceased by his parents, and a brother, Joseph Ezhaya. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, December 14, 2018 at 1pm at the North Windham Union Church, 723 Roosevelt Trail, Windham, ME. Following the celebration, all are welcome to attend a reception at Spring Meadows, 59 Lewiston Rd., Gray, Maine. A Mass of Christian burial will be held in the spring at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Windham, date and time to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Southern Poverty Law Center, 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery, AL 36104. The mission of SPLC is to protect society's most vulnerable. David was passionate about the work of this center. David's family would like to thank the Mercy Hospital team of caregivers and Dr. Roger Inhorn for their compassionate care of David and for those who love him.