Abstract
John Embree had less than two decades in which to work. Yet within that time he gained both some public name and the lasting regard of his fellow professionals. One of the most competent contemporary observers of social life and of the Far East, he was also one of the most versatile. He bridged anthropology and Far Eastern studies; at the time of his death he was a specialist on two areas of Asia; and as an anthropologist he was both scholar and actor in public affairs. The historians of his fields will no doubt remember him primarily for these accomplishments. His contemporaries, however, will recall him as readily for his personal attainments. Of sensitive moral fibre, he was by character and conviction animated by an extraordinary and classic sense of pity. This quality of course won him the respect and admiration of his colleagues. It also opened to him the hearts of those less fortunate than himself, and of the people among whom he worked. In the post-war years he was still remembered with neighborly affection and with pride as in a native son by the people of Suye Mura. In southeast Asia, though his situation was often less conducive to easy personal relationships, he acquired by his deep sympathy a host of devoted friends.
