Middlesex New Synagogue emeritus minister Rabbi Simon Franses has died, aged 66, after a lengthy battle against cancer.
Civic and religious leaders were among over 300 mourners at the funeral at Edgwarebury cemetery on Sunday.
Greek-born Rabbi Franses came to London in 1961, graduating from Leo Baeck College 10 years later. Before joining the Harrow-based MNS in 1987, he served at Edgware Reform and in Glasgow. An ardent Zionist, he also worked tirelessly for interfaith relations.
Former MNS chairman Jane Prentice said “his care for others was unceasing, even from his hospital bed.
“Although he will be sorely missed, Rabbi Franses has left us many wonderful memories and taught us invaluable lessons.”
He is survived by his wife Ann and children Josef and Abigail.