Stephanie Cole, a distinguished British actress known for her extensive work in television and theatre, died yesterday at the age of 84. Her family confirmed she had been living with Alzheimer’s disease for several years.

Born in Solihull, Cole trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School before embarking on a career that spanned multiple decades and included a variety of iconic roles. She gained early recognition for her portrayal of Dr. Beatrice Mason in the BBC drama "Tenko" (1981–1985), which depicted the experiences of British women imprisoned in a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp during World War II.

Cole was widely celebrated for her performances in comedy series such as "Waiting for God," in which she played a resident at a retirement home, earning the British Comedy Award for Best Actress. She also appeared as Mrs. Featherstone, dubbed the “Black Widow,” in the sitcoms "Open All Hours" and its sequel "Still Open All Hours."

Her television career included notable roles in popular series like "Coronation Street," where she portrayed Sylvia Goodwin, the mother of Roy Cropper, from 2011 to 2013. This role earned her a British Soap Award for best comedy performance. She also appeared in "Doc Martin," "Gentleman Jack," and "The Cleaner," demonstrating versatility across genres.

Beyond television, Cole maintained a strong presence in theatre, with performances in productions such as "King Lear," "A Passionate Woman," "Noises Off," and "Talking Heads: A Cream Cracker Under the Settee."

In 2005, she was honored with an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of her contributions not only to drama but also for her advocacy in support of elderly care and mental health charities. Her work supporting such causes continued throughout her life, reflecting a commitment that extended beyond her acting career.

Following the announcement of her death, Alzheimer’s Society chief executive Michelle Dyson expressed sadness, highlighting Cole’s enduring legacy and the impact of her work both on and off screen. Cole’s family has requested privacy during this difficult time.

Stephanie Cole is remembered as a talented and beloved figure whose career enriched British drama and comedy, and who brought joy and insight to audiences for many years.