Professor João Baptista Borges Pereira, a renowned figure in anthropology, was laid to rest in a personal and touching ceremony attended by family, friends, and members of the academic community. He was interred on Saturday, September 14, at Cemiterio da Paz, where the gesture of being buried in a favorite T-shirt, rather than in formal attire, illustrated his down-to-earth personality and the simplicity that characterized his life. This final send-off was not only a tribute to his legacy as the 28th emeritus professor of the Faculty of Philosophy, Letters and Human Sciences at the University of São Paulo (USP) but also reflected the warmth and kindness he embodied throughout his career.

Pereira, who passed away in his home in the Moema neighborhood of São Paulo, left behind a loving family including his wife Maria Teresa, with whom he shared over seventy years of marriage, as well as his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The atmosphere at his funeral was one of deep affection and respect, honoring a man whose research and teachings in anthropology have inspired countless students and colleagues. His gentle demeanor and serene gaze belied a strong determination, exemplified by his experiences during his doctoral research under the guidance of Florestan Fernandes. This blend of gentleness and resolve made him a beloved figure in both his personal life and professional endeavors.

João Baptista's contributions to anthropology went beyond academic achievement; they touched on the human experience, demonstrating a commitment to understanding society with empathy and insight. As the academic community mourns his passing, they also celebrate the values he stood for: kindness, simplicity, and an unwavering dedication to his discipline. His influence will likely continue to resonate through the generations of scholars he inspired, making his loss not just personal but a significant moment in the field of anthropology in Brazil.