Remembering Stephanie Cole: a career on screen and a commitment to others

Actress Stephanie Cole died on 18 September at the age of 84, her agent John Grant announced on behalf of her family. The statement, reported by The Standard and Sky News, said she had been living with Alzheimer’s disease for several years and asked for privacy.

Cole’s work reached audiences through both drama and comedy. Her television credits included Tenko, Open All Hours, Waiting for God and Doc Martin. In Coronation Street, she played Sylvia Goodwin, Roy Cropper’s mother, between 2011 and 2013, earning a British Soap Award for comedy performance.

Her contribution extended beyond acting. She received an OBE in 2005 for services to drama, older people and mental health charities. BRACE Dementia Research also lists Cole among its ambassadors; in a statement on the charity’s website, she supported research and efforts to improve public understanding of dementia.

Alzheimer’s Society paid tribute following the announcement, expressing sympathy for Cole’s family and acknowledging the impact of dementia on her later years.

Sources:

• The Standard / PA — family announcement and career

• Sky News — corroborating report of the family statement

• BRACE — What our supporters say