TRIBUTES have been paid to a charity stalwart who dedicated his retirement to helping some of Hull's most needy families.
For nearly 35 years, until his death at the age of 99, Judah "John" Rose was chairman of the Mother Humber Memorial Fund.
Each year, the charity – formed in 1908 – awards about £25,000 of essential items, such as washing machines and kitchen appliances, to deprived families in Hull.
Retired GP Dr Michael Bott, Mr Rose's close friend and a trustee of the charity, led the tributes.
He said: "Judah Rose was an exceptional man of many talents, but his main concern was always helping others less fortunate.
"His integrity and compassion were evident throughout his life, in his involvement, chairmanship and trusteeship of many charitable organisations.
"He undertook the revival of the Mother Humber Memorial Fund so that it could once again provide help for the needy of Hull."
Malcolm Welford, the charity's secretary, said the fund was launched by the family of the Hull Daily Mail's longest-serving editor Edgar Samuel Lewis.
Mr Lewis's wife became the first female writer at the Mail, writing under the name of Mother Humber.
In 1972, for reasons not clear, the charity became dormant.
"After more research and hard work, Mr Rose revived it in 1980," said Mr Welford. "Since that time the charity has made significant donations to the people of Hull.
"Mr Rose was very active until his death. He attended monthly meetings and led the trustees with great wisdom and skill.
"He had a keen sense of humour and a very sharp mind. We had been looking forward to celebrating his centenary in May.
"Mr Rose will be greatly missed, although the work of the Mother Humber Memorial Fund will continue as a tribute to him."
Dr Bott said Mr Rose, who lived independently in Kirk Ella, will also be remembered for fostering greater understanding between faiths and nationalities.
Mr Rose was a member of the Humberside Council for Christians and Jews, Hull and District Council for Racial Equality, Hull and East Riding Interfaith Forum and other ethnic community organisations.
"He lectured frequently on Judaism to schools, colleges, police and other groups, and supervised the annual Holocaust Memorial Day," said Dr Bott.
"His vast knowledge and wisdom were greatly appreciated by all who knew him, especially when a new constitution was to be written, and his great love of his faith was paramount within the Jewish community."
Mr Rose died at Hull Royal Infirmary from complications following bowel surgery.
He lost his first wife Rhoda and second wife Doreen to cancer. Mr Rose is survived by his children, David and Penelope, as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
