A Farewell Fit for a Legend

In October 2025, the world said goodbye to Dr. Jane Goodall, but her legacy — a legacy built on a lifetime of love, compassion, and action — will never fade. At her memorial service, something deeply moving unfolded. As the grand doors of Washington National Cathedral swung open, a row of rescue and therapy dogs silently lined the aisle, waiting to pay their respects. It was as if the very animals she dedicated her life to protecting had come to walk beside her one final time, honoring the woman who had been their voice, their advocate, and their friend.

Inside the cathedral, a deeply emotional tribute was delivered by none other than Leonardo DiCaprio, a dear friend of Jane’s and a passionate conservationist in his own right. With heartfelt words, he spoke of Jane’s unwavering belief in the power of hope — even the most fragile hope — to change the world. He praised her for teaching millions to care deeply, to take action, and to never give up on the planet.

But Jane’s impact reached far beyond her groundbreaking research with chimpanzees. Through the Jane Goodall Institute and her Roots & Shoots program, she ignited a global movement, inspiring countless young people, conservationists, and everyday dreamers to protect wildlife, care for the environment, and embrace kindness in their daily lives.

As those dogs stood in her honor, quietly, reverently, it felt like a perfect reflection of who Jane was: not just a fighter for animals, but someone who truly loved them, who listened to them, and whose work was shaped by the deep connections she formed with every living being.

Her legacy lives on in every rescued animal, every young activist, and every small act of compassion done in her name. Her spirit continues to guide the hearts of those who seek a better world for all creatures, great and small.