The  Legendary Primatologist Jane Goodall

The world is mourning the passing of Dr. Dame Jane Goodall, call the chimpanzee champion, one of the greatest primatologists and environmental advocates of our time, who has died at the age of 91. The Jane Goodall Institute confirmed that she passed away of natural causes on October 1, 2025, while on tour in the United States.

Born Valerie Jane Morris Goodall on April 3, 1934, in London, she was the daughter of businessman Mortimer Herbert Morris-Goodall and novelist Margaret Myfanwe Joseph. From a young age, Goodall showed a deep fascination with animals an interest that would grow into a groundbreaking career that reshaped how the world understands our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

Goodall became world-famous for her pioneering research on wild chimpanzees in Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania. Beginning in the 1960s, she spent years observing the social and family behaviors of chimpanzees, publishing her discoveries in National Geographic and later in her first major book, In the Shadow of Man (1971). This landmark study, translated into 48 languages, made her a household name and set a new standard for wildlife research.

Her work revealed that chimpanzees are far more complex than previously thought. She documented their use of tools, emotional depth, and social bonds insights that challenged existing scientific beliefs and drew global attention to the intelligence of animals.

Beyond her research, Goodall dedicated much of her life to conservation and advocacy. In 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute, which continues to protect wildlife and ecosystems worldwide. She later launched the Roots & Shoots youth program in 1991, inspiring young people across the globe to take action for animals, people, and the environment.

Her influence extended beyond science. Goodall became a passionate voice for animal welfare, reforestation, and community-led conservation projects across Africa. She established sanctuaries for orphaned chimpanzees and tirelessly campaigned against the exploitation of animals in farming, research, and captivity.

In recognition of her work, Goodall received countless honors. She was appointed a United Nations Messenger of Peace in 2002, named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2003, and inspired a Barbie doll released in her likeness in 2022 as part of the Inspiring Women series. Until her final days, she served on the board of the Nonhuman Rights Project and continued to influence global conservation efforts.

Goodall often reminded the world of the lesson she first learned as a child while bonding with her dog, Rusty: “You cannot share your life in a meaningful way with any kind of animal with a reasonably well-developed brain and not realize that animals have personalities.” This belief guided her entire career and shaped how millions view animals today.

Her death echoes the loss of another legendary primatologist, Dian Fossey, who devoted her life to gorillas as Goodall did to chimpanzees. Together, their work transformed humanity’s relationship with the natural world.

Jane Goodall leaves behind not just decades of research, but also a movement dedicated to compassion, conservation, and hope. Her voice, which touched both hearts and minds, will continue to inspire future generations. RIP Goodall.