Joe Slyper, the oldest Jewish man in the United Kingdom, is preparing to celebrate his 107th birthday on July 15 after a remarkable life defined by service, resilience, and optimism.

Born in East London, in 1919, Joe has witnessed some of history’s most defining moments, from the World War II to the arrival of smartphones and artificial intelligence. A lifelong Tottenham Hotspur supporter, he has lived through the reigns of five British monarchs and served under 24 prime ministers, from David Lloyd George to Keir Starmer.

Before the war, Joe worked in the textile and fashion industry. In 1939, he was among the first to volunteer for the British Army, training as a signaller before rising to the rank of Sergeant with the 9th Battalion of the Devonshire Regiment. He later became a basic training instructor.

In 1940, Joe married his sweetheart, Rose, at East London Synagogue. Their marriage lasted an extraordinary 73 years until her passing. After the war, he returned to the fashion and interior design business, raised a loving family, and today is a proud grandfather and great-grandfather to nine great-grandchildren.

Joe also devoted decades to the Association of Jewish Ex-Servicemen & Women (AJEX), serving as chairman of the Finchley and Hampstead Garden Suburb branch and proudly marching in remembrance parades until he was 100 years old.

Despite witnessing a dramatic rise in antisemitism in recent years, Joe remains hopeful. Speaking to Jewish News, he encouraged younger generations to stay positive, saying, “Just work hard and make the best of life.” He also laughed about modern technology, admitting, “I’ve got an iPad, but I don’t know how to work it.”

Joe’s remarkable life has also been recognized by Britain’s Royal Family. He received a congratulatory birthday card from Queen Elizabeth II on his 100th birthday and another from King Charles III when he celebrated turning 105.

From helping defend Britain during World War II to becoming one of the nation’s oldest living Jewish veterans, Joe Slyper’s extraordinary journey is a testament to courage, perseverance, and the enduring strength of an incredible generation.

Mazal Tov, Joe! May you continue to enjoy good health, happiness, and many more years.