It is with deep love and profound respect that we remember Stanley Fisher BEM, a man of extraordinary courage, quiet strength, and unwavering faith, who lived to the remarkable age of 101.
A proud D-Day veteran, Stanley marched across Europe during the Second World War, fighting at Arnhem and continuing through to Bergen-Belsen. As the only Jewish soldier in his unit, he carried both the burden of war and a deeply personal connection to what he witnessed. For many years, he kept these experiences to himself.
Later in life, through the curiosity of his grandson, Ben, Stanley began to share his story. With humility and courage, he dedicated himself to educating younger generations—visiting schools, teaching about Judaism, and bringing his message to life, even blowing the shofar. In doing so, he transformed pain into purpose.
Stanley was a lifelong pillar of the Jewish community—a founder of the Solihull Orthodox Synagogue and a devoted member of the Birmingham Singers Hill Congregation. Even in his later years, he inspired many, including reading the Haftorah on both his 100th and 101st birthdays.
He was awarded the British Empire Medal by the Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Derrick Anderson CBE, and also received France’s Legion d’Honneur – honours he accepted with characteristic modesty.
Warm, humble, and with a gentle sense of humour, Stanley found great joy in family life. He loved leading the Seder surrounded by his grandchildren and was also a keen crown green bowls player. In his later years at Blossomfield Grange Nursing Home, he was deeply loved by all, and fittingly was given a guard of honour—something he would no doubt have played down.
Stanley shared 73 devoted years with his beloved wife Evelyn. Together they raised three children – Helena, Hilary, and Alan – and built a family that includes five grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. He was the much-loved brother of the late Doreen Freedman and is survived by his dear sister, Bette Goldsmith of Radlett United Synagogue. His family was his greatest pride and legacy.
Stanley’s life was defined not by the honours he received, but by his humility, kindness, and quiet determination to do good. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always cherished.
May his memory be a blessing.
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