Francisco Simões Thomaz (1950 – 2026)

Their Story

Francisco "Chico" de Assis Simões Thomaz was a dedicated physician, educator, and political leader whose career spanned four decades of service to his community in Minas Gerais. After earning his medical degree from the Federal University of Minas Gerais, he relocated to Coronel Fabriciano in the Vale do Aço region in 1980, where he worked as an obstetrician and gynecologist while also teaching and serving as a forensic physician. His commitment to public service and social causes led him into politics as a devoted member of the Workers' Party, beginning with his election as vice-mayor in 1989 and his subsequent service as city councilor and state deputy. He was elected mayor of Coronel Fabriciano three times across non-consecutive terms, overseeing significant municipal development and social programs that earned him recognition as a committed advocate for working people. Even in his later years, Chico remained engaged in civic life, returning to the city council in 2024. Known for his principled stance on human rights and unwavering support for progressive policies, he maintained his activist spirit until the very end, continuing to speak out on social and political matters. He is survived by his wife Vânia and two children.

Sources

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chico_Sim%C3%B5es