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Philip Tobias Obituary
In a statement, the university where Tobias studied and then taught said he died in Johannesburg Thursday after a long illness.
Tobias did pioneering research on the evolutionary links between primates and humans. Nick Barton, of Oxford University, said Thursday that Tobias "was one of the greats in human evolutionary studies."
A South African colleague, archaeologist Lyn Wadley, said Tobias also should be remembered for speaking out against apartheid.
Wadley says, "The thing that I really admired so much is that during the darkest ages of South Africa, when he could have got a job anywhere in the world, he chose to stay here, because this was his country, where he could make a difference."
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
17 Entries
Carolle Marquard
June 18, 2012
Prof. Philip Tobias a great scientist, a great man, an inspiration. I was privileged to meet him long ago and to attend some of his lectures. Mankind can be thankful and proud of people like Prof. Tobias.
T B
June 11, 2012
Anyone who helped in the struggle against Apartheid is a hero in my book. God Bless
Marie-Henry Keane OP
June 10, 2012
God rest Prof. Philip Tobias' soul. He was not only agreat scientist but an amazing human being.
Dr/Sr Marie-Henry Keane OP
June 10, 2012
He is to be admired not only for his intelligence but also for his heart and his stand against apartied. My condolences from a stranger in Mississippi, U.S., a lover of science, nature, and good people. Marion
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Bridget Carbello
June 9, 2012
I never knew Mr. Tobias but I had just stated to study his work at home. I am sorry for your loss, and the loss to the nations he was a great man he will be missed.
Marc Ziegenfuss
June 9, 2012
A paragon of erudition he was. The world is better off for having had him. May he rest in peace (with our Ancestors).
June 9, 2012
With deepest sympathy to the family during your time of sorrow. Psalms 46:1 says: God is for us a refuge and strength during this difficult time and May God grant you the comfort to endure.
June 8, 2012
My condolences to the family. May your fond memories bring you peace as well as the comfort that our heavenly father gives.
Victoria&Andrew VZj
June 8, 2012
Our condolences to
Philip Tobias&Family
One of a Kind person"
Admired Wise & educated
rip`
Pat Turner
June 8, 2012
A most respected and revered man. A privilege to have known him and been taught by him. Condolences to all family and friends.
Norman Blumberg
June 8, 2012
A Titan has fallen. We were classmates and I was a member of his staff for decades. But my most cherished memories are as a friend. I saw him regularly on many visits to S Africa, the last time six months ago. He was an acknowledged genius but above all, a true "mensch". He leaves a huge void nationally, internationally and personally and he and is forever irreplaceable.
Diann Borst
June 8, 2012
People such as Professor Tobias are a blessing to mankind. So few and far between, it's a real loss when such a huge contributor to education and moral values, passes.
Clare Kennedy Galloway
June 8, 2012
Thank you for enlightening the world. It was a privilege to have been in your paleontology course in the 1970s. You were always a gracious and humble man. You will be missed.
June 8, 2012
To the the family of Philip Tobias - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that he will be missed by many.
Jeff Fairley
June 7, 2012
Revered respected and a great role model for many anatomy students at Wits Medical School.A truly great loss. R.I.P
K. Lindsay Eaves
June 7, 2012
Truly a great loss to paleoanthropology. R.I.P. P.V.T.
Alan Kennedy
June 7, 2012
We'll miss you Professor-
Hamba Kashle,
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