The Self-Determination for Gibraltar Group has paid tribute to one of its founder members, William Serfaty, who passed away earlier this week.

Denis Matthews said:

“It is with deep regret that the Self-Determination for Gibraltar Group learnt of the death of William Serfaty. Willie, as he was known by all who knew him, was a founder member of the Group and regularly attended all our meetings and participated in all the activities that we organised, from being part of the group that presented the Self- Determination petition to 10 Downing Street to the symbolic burial of the Brussels Agreement.

“He was very well-versed in Gibraltar’s history and deeply conscious of our heritage which led him to propose that we should present posthumous awards to the families of prominent Gibraltarians who made outstanding contributions to Gibraltar’s progress from a colonial outpost of the British Empire to democratic representation and the establishment of workers’ rights. When his proposal was accepted he undertook research which led to a number of awards, the latest of which went recently to the family of Agustin Huart.

“Willie was an architect by profession and upon completing his studies he joined his father (also an architect) in the family firm. Willie was also well known as part of the popular “ Red House” which was his family’s business and an icon on Main Street for many years. Willie was an exceptional human being and always had time for his friends. SDGG supporters would sometimes drop by to discuss current issues with him.

“His deep commitment to Gibraltar and the SDGG led him to take over the chairmanship of the Group when I retired – a position which he held for nine years. He was a kind person who made an important contribution to the Group and he will surely be fondly remembered by all the SDGG supporters with whom he came in contact and he will be sadly missed.

“Our sincerest condolences to his son Sacha and daughter Lisa and all of his family.”

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