Tisbury School industrial arts teacher Michael Ovios died Thursday morning at Massachusetts General Hospital after battling a long illness.

Mr. Ovios worked at the school for 37 years, and principal Richie Smith fondly remembered his love for food, laughs and passion for life.

“He was just such a big personality and someone who really loved life and shared that with the kids, so you trusted what he said, even though you’d wonder if he’s winking at you and telling you everything,” Mr. Smith said yesterday afternoon. “Mike was a very funny man and did some things that were unforgettable.”

Mr. Ovios was in and out of the classroom throughout the year, and appeared to have taken a turn for the better after the winter holidays, Mr. Smith said. However, after the February break, Mr. Ovios did not return to school.

Mr. Smith sent parents an e-mail yesterday informing them of Mr. Ovios’ death and assured them counseling teams had visited all of the classes Thursday morning and would continue to be available in the coming days. Faculty and students took it equally hard, as Mr. Ovios taught art to the entire school, and Mr. Smith said he was amazed at the eloquence with which his students expressed their sadness.

“They described him as a great man, incredibly creative, and we’re talking about kindergarteners using words like creativity,” Mr. Smith said. “He imprinted his personality and his love for life on all the kids.”

Close friend and former Tisbury School teacher Bob Holt notified Mr. Smith of Mr. Ovios’ passing yesterday morning. Mr. Holt said he died comfortably and surrounded by family.

“They say you can’t fill a hole when you leave, but I think if there was anybody who’d leave a hole in the Tisbury School it’s going to be him,” Mr. Smith said. “We’re all heartbroken.”

A full obituary will appear in a future edition of the Gazette.