This is my grandpa Joe, the UK’s oldest Jewish man at the age of 106. Joe Slyper is a British WWII veteran born on July 15, 1919, in Mile End, East London. He worked in the textiles and fashion industry before the war. In 1939, he was among the first to volunteer for the British Army, trained as a signaller, earned the rank of Sergeant with the 9th Battalion Devonshire Regiment and later became a basic training instructor. He spent the war in Britain, as his skills were deemed essential.
In 1940, he married his sweetheart Rose at East London Synagogue; they were married for 73 years until her passing. After the war, Joe returned to the fashion and interior design business and is a devoted grandfather and great-grandfather to 9 great grandchildren who adore him.
For decades, Joe was deeply involved with AJEX (Association of Jewish Ex-Servicemen & Women), serving as chairman of the Finchley and Hampstead Garden Suburb branch and marching in parades until age 100.
In a January 2026 Daily Mail interview, Joe expressed sorrow over hatred toward Jews but remained positive about Britain, advising young people: “Just work hard and make the best of life.”
Photo: Joe reading a birthday card from the King for his 105th birthday. He was also honoured to receive a card from Queen Elizabeth II on his 100th birthday.
Source: nicky_boy123
