A Tribute to Stanley M Diamond (z”l)
“To Sir, With Love”
I asked the Internet “What was Stanley Mark Diamond’s superpower?” It didn’t know, but we do! Stanley could envision what needed to be done and then charm the right people into doing it. He also rolled up his sleeves and worked too! With these skills, Stanley was not only a Lifetime Learner, but he was a Lifetime Contributor. And we will keep his baby going as long as we can.
Somehow, writing about Stanley in the past tense makes the loss of Stanley much more Real. Putting a tribute on our website makes our loss so much more Permanent. And it’s painful. We are like students facing the end of a long schoolyear, graduating, and wondering what we can give our mentor in return… Stanley, all I can think of saying, as the song goes, is: ‘If you wanted the sky, I would write across the sky in letters, that would soar a thousand feet high, ‘To Sir with Love’”. – Robinn Magid
It is with deep sorrow and profound respect that we announce the passing of Stanley Mark Diamond, the founding executive director of JRI-Poland.org, who passed away on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. A visionary leader, compassionate advocate, and relentless explorer, Stanley’s contributions to the field of Jewish genealogy and Holocaust remembrance will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.
In Loving Memory of Stanley Mark Diamond, Founding Executive Director of JRI-Poland
“Shalom Mendel ben Abraham v’Etel” who died on the 17 of Kislev, 5785
Stanley Diamond was a pioneer in the effort to preserve Jewish history and identity, particularly in relation to the lost communities of Poland. As the driving force behind JRI-Poland, he worked tirelessly to gather, preserve, and disseminate vital records of Jewish communities throughout Poland before the devastation of the Holocaust. Through his work, he helped thousands of descendants reconnect with their heritage, uncovering family histories that had been obscured by the ravages of time and war.
His passion for the preservation of these records and his dedication to the global Jewish community was unparalleled. Stanley was not only an expert in genealogy but also a warm, supportive mentor to countless individuals pursuing their own family histories. His vision for JRI-Poland extended beyond simply compiling records—he believed in the power of these documents to tell stories, to heal wounds, and to strengthen the bonds of communities that had been torn apart and presumeably lost.
Under his leadership, JRI-Poland grew into a vital organization that serves as a beacon for Jewish genealogists and historians worldwide. Stanley’s determination and meticulous attention to detail ensured that countless records were made accessible, many of which had been misplaced or overlooked for decades. His work bridged the past and the future, creating a bridge of memory and understanding for those seeking to know more about their roots.
Stanley was a man of intellect, integrity, and generosity. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was a friend, a mentor, and a guide to all who had the privilege of working with him. His infectious enthusiasm for Jewish history and his deep respect for the survivors and their stories inspired all who knew him.
Stanley’s legacy will live on through the countless individuals whose family histories were brought to light, the records he helped preserve, and the community he helped build. His dedication to remembrance, his unwavering commitment to the Jewish people, and his tireless work to ensure that the stories of Polish Jewry would never be forgotten, will continue to impact the world for years to come.
Stanley is survived by his devoted wife, Ruth, three daughters (Paula, Rachel and Jessika) and four grandchildren, and he will also be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In his memory, donations may be made to JRI-Poland.org, ensuring that his work continues to help future generations connect with their roots.
Many have written beautiful tributes to Stanley and you can read some of them here:
https://groups.jewishgen.org/g/main/topic/in_memory_of_stanley_diamond/110192444
https://www.mikecohen.ca/mikecohen/2024/12/groundbreaking-c%C3%B4te-saint-luc-researcher-in-geneology-stan-diamond-has-left-us.html
https://jewish-heritage-europe.eu/2024/12/20/stanley-diamond-zl/
https://www.alumni.hbs.edu/stories/Pages/story-bulletin.aspx?num=5757
May his memory be for a blessing.
