Mount Saint Agnes Academy graduates reflected on a classmate who lost his life in a fatal stabbing last October.

Lara Simas’s tribute to Ethan Arruda, who died after an incident on Devonshire Bay Road, appeared in the school’s magazine, The Saint.

Part of the tribute read: “At 17, Ethan already had a legacy that was impossible to forget, a blend of humour, kindness and a spirit that lit up every room he entered.

“While he may no longer be with us, the memories of his laughter, his quiet strength and his playful nature remain with us, reminding us of the joy he brought to our lives.”

Ms Simas added: “He had a thing for flexing his muscles at the most unexpected moments, turning everyday interactions into a bit of a performance.

“It was one of the many ways he could bring a smile to anyone’s face, always light-hearted and full of joy.”

Olek Rymon-Lipinski, salutatorian for Mr Arruda’s graduating class, said the teenager would “always be with us, in spirit and in our memories, as long as we remember him”.

A teenager has appeared in court charged with Mr Arruda’s murder in May.

Valedictorian Ethan McAlpine told graduates on June 26 that they “discovered the meaning of friendship, perseverance and community” while at MSA.

He added: “While some of us excelled in academics, others thrived in athletics, art or leadership.

“Our contributions have shown us that there is no single formula for success; it was never just about what we achieved, but about how we got there.”

Principal Anna Faria-Machado told graduates: “In many ways, your class has become a living reflection of what MSA strives to be — a family grounded in faith, guided by love and united in purpose.”

Ms Faria-Machado urged them to remember the school’s motto, Nil Sine Deo (Nothing Without God), throughout their lives.

She explained: “With Him, you have already weathered much, and with Him, there is no limit to where you can go”.

Graduates will be working or pursuing education in Bermuda, Canada, the Philippines, Britain and the United States.