Rev. Franklin Graham Honors Dr. Jane Goodall After Her Passing at 91

With great sadness, the Jane Goodall Institute confirmed this morning the peaceful passing of its founder, Dr. Jane Goodall, at the age of 91. She died in her sleep while on a speaking tour in Los Angeles, California, where she had been continuing her tireless mission of education, conservation, and advocacy.

The news immediately sparked an outpouring of grief and reflection from around the world. Among those who spoke out was Rev. Franklin Graham, the well-known evangelical leader and humanitarian, who offered words of deep admiration and respect.

“Though our missions were different, I have always held the deepest admiration for Dr. Jane Goodall and her tireless commitment to protecting God’s creation and inspiring future generations to care for this world,” Graham said. “Her compassion, humility, and steadfast dedication to her calling will continue to touch lives for years to come. I pray for her family, as well as for all those she inspired throughout her lifetime.”

By placing Graham’s statement at the forefront, many observers noted the striking resonance between faith-based stewardship of creation and Dr. Goodall’s lifelong commitment to animals, the environment, and humanity. His tribute reflected the breadth of Dr. Goodall’s influence—stretching beyond scientific circles into spiritual, humanitarian, and cultural communities.

A Life of Discovery and Dedication

Jane Goodall first set foot in Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania in 1960, beginning what would become the world’s longest-running study of wild chimpanzees. At a time when few women were accepted in science, she defied conventions and pursued a groundbreaking field study that forever changed the way humans understand animals.

She observed chimpanzees not only using tools but creating them—a revelation that overturned long-standing assumptions about the uniqueness of human beings. This discovery, among many others, established her as one of the most influential scientists of the 20th century.

Yet Goodall’s legacy extended far beyond the scientific realm. She became a global ambassador for conservation, tirelessly advocating for the protection of forests, wildlife, and the interconnected web of life. Her ability to communicate complex ideas with warmth and clarity inspired millions to think differently about the natural world.

Building a Global Movement

Over four decades, Goodall expanded her focus from chimpanzee behavior to the broader challenges of habitat loss, climate change, and human development. She pioneered community-centered conservation, emphasizing that protecting wildlife required improving the well-being of local communities.

Her work through the Jane Goodall Institute brought tangible change across Africa and beyond, ensuring that conservation was never divorced from human dignity and progress.

Perhaps her most enduring initiative was the launch of Roots & Shoots in 1991, a youth-led program dedicated to environmental and humanitarian action. Today, Roots & Shoots operates in over 75 countries, engaging young people to take on issues ranging from deforestation to animal welfare to social justice.

Goodall often said that the passion and creativity of young people gave her hope for the future. Roots & Shoots became her way of passing the torch to the next generation, ensuring her message of hope and responsibility would continue to ripple outward.

A Legacy Beyond Science

The Institute’s statement this morning emphasized not only Goodall’s role as a pioneering scientist but also her impact as a humanitarian. She urged people to see the natural world not as a resource to exploit but as a shared home to cherish.

Her books, lectures, and documentaries reached global audiences. Whether speaking to world leaders or sitting with children in a classroom, she carried the same message: that every individual has a role to play in making the planet a better place.

It is this combination of scientific rigor, moral clarity, and personal humility that made Goodall so universally admired. She inspired curiosity, compassion, and courage in millions of people who never set foot in the forests of Tanzania yet felt connected to her vision.

Graham’s Tribute Resonates

Rev. Franklin Graham’s remarks following her passing highlighted a profound common ground between environmental advocacy and faith. While coming from different traditions, both leaders spoke to the sacred responsibility of stewardship—whether described as “God’s creation” or the “interconnected web of life.”

By acknowledging Goodall’s humility and her dedication, Graham underscored how her influence transcended boundaries of science, culture, and religion. His words were widely shared on social media, reflecting the respect held for Goodall across ideological and spiritual divides.

The World Reacts

From scientists and conservationists to world leaders and everyday admirers, tributes poured in from every corner of the globe. Many shared personal memories of how Goodall’s work inspired them to pursue careers in science, environmentalism, or humanitarian service.

The United Nations Environment Programme called her “a beacon of hope for humanity and nature alike.” Former students recalled her ability to listen deeply and encourage them to act on their convictions.

Even those outside the conservation community recognized her as a moral voice whose life reminded us of the possibility of living with compassion, purpose, and resilience.

Continuing Her Vision

The Jane Goodall Institute closed its announcement with gratitude to all supporters, partners, and friends during this difficult time. They invited people everywhere to share personal remembrances of Dr. Goodall and to carry forward the mission she devoted her life to.

Her vision, the Institute emphasized, was never solely about chimpanzees. It was about humanity, about hope, and about believing in the possibility of a better world. That vision, they said, now lives on in all of us.

Dr. Jane Goodall’s passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy continues in the forests of Tanzania, in the young people of Roots & Shoots, and in every individual inspired to live with greater compassion.

As Rev. Franklin Graham so poignantly expressed, her life was a testament to humility, dedication, and the power of one person to make a difference. The world has lost a remarkable voice—but her spirit will echo for generations to come.