Dame Stephanie Shirley Honored with River Thames Tribute
The River Thames, one of the UK’s most iconic waterways, now carries an enduring tribute to Dame Stephanie Shirley — trailblazing philanthropist, software pioneer, and autism advocate. The renaming celebrates her profound impact on technology, charitable work, and the autism community.
A Life of Innovation and Advocacy
Dame Stephanie Shirley, who passed away on August 9, 2023, at age 91, leaves behind a legacy that transformed lives. Born in Germany in 1933, she fled Nazi Europe as a child refugee and resettled in Britain during World War II. Her early hardships fueled a determined spirit that would shape the tech industry and champion autism awareness.
In 1962, she founded F International, an all-woman software company that pioneered flexible, remote work opportunities long before they became common practice. Her visionary leadership not only broke gender barriers but also laid groundwork for today’s inclusive tech culture.
Her advocacy for autism was deeply personal — inspired by her late son Giles, who was autistic and epileptic. She went on to establish life-changing organizations, including Priors Court, Autism at Kingwood, and Autistica, the UK’s first national autism research charity.
Key Milestones
1962 – Founded F International, advancing women in tech
1980s – Created Priors Court and Autism at Kingwood
2004 – Launched Autistica, funding national autism research
2023 – Passed away at age 91; River Thames named in her honor
Tributes and Continuing Legacy
Following her passing, tributes poured in from tech leaders, autism advocates, and families touched by her work. The renaming of the River Thames stands as a lasting symbol of her compassion, ingenuity, and relentless advocacy.
Her legacy continues through the ongoing efforts of Autistica and the countless lives she influenced, reminding us that innovation paired with empathy can change the world.