Roll of Honour - Somerset - Taunton St Andrews

Ministry of Defence

Lest We Forget

The Royal British Legion

TAUNTON ST ANDREW'S WAR MEMORIAL

World War 1 & 2 - Detailed information
Compiled and Copyright © Archie Needs & Carol Dimmer 2019

St. Andrew's Church is to be found in Greenway Avenue, Taunton. When St Andrew's was first built it comprised a nave and 2 side aisles and seated 500. In 1893 the original south aisle was removed and a new larger south aisle was added, together with the Lady Chapel beyond (the north aisle was retained). The High Altar was also extended. The additional 200 - 300 seats were needed to accommodate the rapidly increasing congregation who could no longer be comfortably seated. The church was re-dedicated in 1893, only 11 years after it first opened. St. Andrew's was built to serve the rapidly expanding area of Taunton which served the newly arrived Great Western Railway, and soon became known as "The Railway Parish". The names of the World War 1 fallen are listed in six of the eight panels at the base of main screen behind the pulpit.

Photographs from old postcards

ATTENDITE AD PETRAM UNDE EXCISI ESTIS

1914-1919

ADAMS	Arthur	Private 240155 2/5th Somerset Light Infantry, formerly 1377 SLI. Arthur was born in Taunton in 1893 and lived at 3 North Town Crescent. Died in Iraq on 26th October 1917 aged 24 and is commemorated on the Basra War Memorial.
ADAMS	John	Corporal 205183 3rd Bedfordshire Regiment, formerly 2705 Somerset Light Infantry. Lived at 9 North Town Crescent and died 23rd August 1917 in Burma aged 27 and is buried in Rangoon War Cemetery.
ARNOLD	Geoffrey Francis	Captain 1/5th Somerset Light Infantry. Born in Taunton in 1891 and attended Blundell's School in Tiverton. Died at the Battle of Dujaila on 8th March 1916 aged 24 and is commemorated on the Basra War Memorial in Iraq.
BABB	William Edward Jack	Private 137133 3rd Machine Gun Corps (Infantry). Born in East Brent in 1899 the son of a Chauffeur, Jack lived at 6 Cyril Street in Taunton. He was killed in France on 2nd September 1918 aged 19 and is commemorated on the Vis-En-Artois Memorial.
BAILEY	Newman Joynt	Engine Room Artifacer M14638 H.M.S. Blake. Newman was born in Tiverton on 1st August 1897 and married Lily Gill in Taunton in 1910. They lived at 3 William Street, Taunton. Murph, as he was known, died of disease on 23rd November 1918 aged 32 is buried in St James Cemetery in Taunton along with his parents Newman Bailey and Anna Joynt.
BLACKMORE	Russell Henry	Private 6287 5th Connaught Rangers. Born in Exeter in 1894 and enlisted at St Ives in Cornwall. Lived at Rockbeare in Salisbury Street, Taunton in 1911. Russell worked for the Great Western Railway in their Hotels Department and died on 14th January 1916 in Bulgaria and is buried in Sofia Central Cemetery.
BRINKWORTH	Frederick George	Private 11560 4th Canadian Infantry. Frederick was born in Taunton in 1889 and married Rhoda Cuff in 1914. His father George was a Postman and the family lived in Herbert Street, Taunton. He died on 24th April 1915 aged 26 and is remembered with honour on the Menin Gate Memorial.
CHAFEY	Clifford James	Lance Corporal 13026 9th Devon Regiment. Born in Taunton in 1893 and lived at 40 Albermarle Road. His father Samuel was a Bus/Cab Driver and Clifford worked as a Baker's Assistant before the War. He enlisted at Ynyshir in Wales and died on 5th September 1916 aged just 19 and is buried at Heilly Station in France.
CHAFEY	Herbert Edgar	Lance Corporal 21396 10th Gloucestershire Regiment. Brother of Clifford, Herbert was born in Taunton in 1896. He died on 16th June 1916 aged 20 and is buried in Bethune Town Cemetery in France.
CLEAL	Reginald Willie	Lance Corporal 27631 1st Somerset Light Infantry. Born in Taunton in 1892, his father Thomas was a Railway Traffic Keeper. Reginald was a Grocer's Assistant and the family lived at 10 Cyril Street in 1901 and at 12 Greenway Avenue in 1911. He died on 4th October 1917 aged 25 and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial in Belgium.
CROCKER	Francis George	2nd Lieutenant 8th East Yorkshire Regiment. He was born in London in 1897 and was baptised in Frome. His father George Ashcombe Crocker was a native of Long Sutton, Somerset and a Furniture Buyer by trade. Francis died on 14th July 1916 aged just 19 and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in France.
CUMMINGS	John	Private 25834 7th Somerset Light Infantry. Born in Wembdon in 1882, he was a Cowman on an Estate. He married Lilian Stoodley from Chard in 1904 and died on 16th August 1917 aged 35 and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial in Belgium.
DAVEY	William	Private 7255 1st Somerset Light Infantry. Born in Taunton in 1887, he was a Railway Foreman and lived at 40 Kingston Road. William died on 13th June 1915 aged 28 and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial in Belgium.
DAVIDGE	Alfred Ernest	Leading Seaman 200441 H.M.S. Columbella. He was born in Swindon in 1882 and worked for the Great Western Railway. His father George was a Boiler Maker. He married Louisa Pomeroy in 1913 and they lived at 23 Thomas Street in Taunton. Alfred died on 17th March 1917 aged 32 and is buried in St James Cemetery in Taunton.
DAVIS	Harry Sydney	Private 15332 8th Somerset Light Infantry. Born in Taunton in 1881 and lived at 14 William Street. He died on 25th September 1915 aged 34 and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial in France.
DAWKINS	Frederick Cecil	Lance Corporal 14980 7th Somerset Light Infantry. Born in Taunton in 1895 he was the son of Cecil Oswald Dawkins a Piano Tuner and Rose Drew. In 1901 they lived at 19 Albemarle Road and by 1911 had moved to Carlton Terrace in Station Road, Taunton. Frederick was an Office Assistant and was killed on 17th September 1916 aged just 21. He is buried at Bronfay Farm in France.
DAY	Clarence Henry John	Private 295518 12th Somerset Light Infantry. Born in Durston in 1898, his father Robert Henry was a Railway Shunter for the Great Western Railway and his mother was Ellen Kinglake. In 1911 the family lived at 44 Richmond Road in Taunton. Clarence died on 10th November 1917 aged just 19 and is buried in Beersheba Cemetery in Israel.
FRANKLIN	John Henry James	Private 34737 11th Worcestershire Regiment. Born in 1885 in Cardiff, John married Laura Emily Lockyer at St Andrew's Church, Taunton in 1906. He was a Printer by trade and the family lived at 35 Portman Street. He died on 23rd April 1917 aged 32 and is commemorated on the Doiran Memorial in Greece.
GILES	Reginald William	Private 6194 2nd Devonshire Regiment. Born in 1892 in Wellington, his father William Giles was a House Painter and his mother was Mary Eliza Tooze, they lived at 14 Whitehall, Taunton in 1911. Reginald died on 24th December 1914 aged 22 and is buried in the Boulogne East Cemetery in France.
GREGORY	Walter Stanley	2nd Lieutenant 5th Wiltshire Regiment, formerly 11936 Somerset Light Infantry. Born in Wellington in 1888, the son of a Chemist he attended King's College in Taunton. A Solictor by trade, Walter was killed at the Battle of Shatt-Al-Adhaim on 30 April 1917 aged 29 and is commemorated on the Basra War Memorial in Iraq.
HARVEY	Frederick Andrew	Sergeant 7309 Dorset Regiment. Frederick was born in Taunton on 18th November 1886 and joined the Great Western Railway as a Lad Porter aged 14, following in the footsteps of his father William. His mother was Sylvia Leaford and the family lived at 13 Salisbury Street, Taunton. Frederick was killed in the Moplah Rising on October 1st 1921 aged 35 and is buried in Malabar Cemetery in India. His name was added later to the War Memorial.
HAWKER	Harold Victor	Sergeant 8653 1st Somerset Light Infantry. Harold was born in Taunton in 1894 to John Solomon Hawker, a bugler in the Somerset Light Infantry, and Clara Marks. The family lived at 22 Alma Street, Taunton before Harold lost his life on 8th August 1916 aged 22. He is buried in the Essex Farm Cemetery in Belgium.
HAWKINS	Henry Reginald James	Private 30098 1st Somerset Light Infantry. Henry was born in Wellington in 1886 and married Hilda Beatrice Paddick in 1907 at St Andrew's Church in Taunton. His father James was a publican and Henry and Hilda together with their two sons and two daughters lived at 5 Whitehall in Taunton. Henry died on 15th July 1917 aged 31 and is buried in Basra War Cemetery, Iraq.
HILL	Harold James	Private 2697 2nd Somerset Light Infantry. Born in Milverton on 23rd November 1896 to house painter Francis Robert and mother Florence Ida Giles. Lived in Lesie Avenue in Taunton before moving to Staplegrove Road. Harold left the army due to sickness and died on 23rd October 1916 aged 19. He is buried in Staplegrove Cemetery.
HUTCHINGS	Percy John	Private 4165 5th Bedfordshire Regiment. Born in Taunton in 1889, and baptised at St Andrews Church, to William Hutchings (Railway Porter) and Mary Elizabeth Vaux. The family lived in 30 Jubilee Street, Taunton before Percy was killed on 3rd September 1915 aged 25. He is buried in the 7th Field Ambulance Cemetery in Turkey.
KIRK	Harold Raymond	2nd Lieutenant 4th Somerset Light Infantry, formerly 295239 West Somerset Yeomanry. Harold was born in Bath in 1896 and attended Huish's Grammar School in Taunton. His father Albert Richard Kirk was a tailor's cutter and his mother was Emma Pethbridge. The family lived at 60 Greenway Road in Taunton. Harold died on 31st July 1917 aged 21 and is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial.
KNIGHT	Victor John	Private 203344 2nd Worcestershire Regiment. John Knight was born in Taunton in 1887 and baptised at St James Church. His father Robert was a grocer and gardener and his mother was Jane Stone. The family ran The Stores in Staplegrove Road before John died on 26th September 1917 aged 30. He is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial in Belgium.
MARKE	Herbert	Company Sergeant Major 8683 2nd Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Bertie was born in Paddington in 1886 to Robert Marke and Sarah Jane. He married Ethel Ruth Dingle at Holy Trinity Church in Taunton on July 10th 1913. They lived at 32 Queen Street, Taunton after their marriage and Bertie was later awarded the Military Medal before dying on 23rd April 1917 aged 30. He was described by his Commanding Officer as "A very good reliable man. Honest, sober and trustworthy. He is commemorated on the Basra War Memorial in Iraq.
MEARS	Arthur James	Private 295085 12th Somerset Light Infantry, formerly 780 West Somerset Yeomanry. Born in Whimple, Devon in 1897, his father James was a butler and his mother was Minnie Burbidge Watts. The family lived at 27 Greenway Avenue, Taunton and Arthur died on 23rd September 1918 aged 21. He is buried in the Doingt Cemetery in France.
MEARS	Frederick William	Private 240317 1/5th Somerset Light Infantry. Brother of Arthur James and born in Whimple, Devon in 1895. He was also just 21 when he died on 25th November 1916. He is commemorated on the Basra War Memorial in Iraq.
MITCHELL	Wilfred Lionel	Petty Officer Motor Mechanic 10045 Royal Naval Air Service. Wilfred was born in Taunton on 15th December 1885, the son of Alfred Mitchell and Emma Jones. The family lived at Glen Oak, Greenway Avenue in Taunton. Lionel died on 1st July 1917 aged 32 and is remembered on the Poznan War Memorial in Poland.
MORLE	Henry	1st Class Stoker 200718 H.M.S. Goliath. Henry was born in Taunton in 1882 and baptised at St Andrews Church. His father Henry was a Railway Porter and his mother was Harriet. They lived in Cherry Grove before moving firstly to Portman Street and then to Peter Street in Taunton. Henry died on 13th May 1915 when his ship H.M.S. Goliath was sunk in the Dardanelles. He was 33 years old and is commemorated on the Naval Memorial on Plymouth Hoe.
PHILLIPS	William	Private 1250 2nd West Somerset Yeomanry. Born in 1895 at Thurloxton to Frank Phillips (Joiner) and Emily Symes. Before the war William was an Office Boy and the family lived at 14 Raleigh Terrace in Taunton. He died on 23rd February 1915 aged 20 and is buried in St James Cemetery in Taunton.
ROWE	Stafford Gordon Garnet Godfrey Thomas	Lieutenant 3rd Dorset Regiment. Born in Bradninch in 1896, his father Thomas was in the Royal Marines and his mother was Mary Elizabeth Webster. The family lived at 38 Richmond Road in Taunton before Stafford was killed on 10th November 1917 aged 21. He is buried in Bard Cottage Cemetery in Belgium.
RYALL	Herbert James	Private 241537 1st Somerset Light Infantry. Born in Wellington in 1887, the family moved to Wood Street, Taunton in 1891 and by 1901 were at 3 Gladstone Street. James was a van boy before becoming a laundry worker by 1911. Herbert was killed in action at the Battle of Ell-Jib in Palestine on 23rd November 1917. He was 30 years old and is buried in Jerusalem War Cemetery.
SEARLE	Fred	Private 29783 1st Wiltshire Regiment, formerly 21723 Somerset Light Infantry. Fred was born in Whitestaunton in 1896 to Charles Searle and Mary Bench. He died on 10th April 1918 aged 22 and is buried in the Strand Cemetery in Belgium.
SIMONS	Edward	Company Quarter Master Sergeant 205082 7th Shropshire Light Infantry. Edward was born in Bedford in 1882 to Arthur Thomas Simons (Grocer) and Eva Louisa Maile. Before the war he was a Commercial Traveller selling soap and lodged at 29 Cyril Street in Taunton. Edward died on 25th March 1918 aged 35 and is buried in Wailly Orchard Cemetery in France.
SIMPKISS	Cyril	Private 28787 7th Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry, formerly 1531 West Somerset Yeomanry. Born in Brighouse, Yorkshire in 1898 to William Edward Simpkiss (Dental Anaesthetist) and Annie Harper. The family lived at Kilkenny Villas in Taunton in 1911 and Cyril was killed on 2nd April 1918 aged 20. He is commemorated on the Pozieres Memorial in France.
SWEET	Herbert James	Private 295584 12th Somerset Light Infantry. Herbert was born in Taunton in 1898 and was baptised in St Andrews Church. His father James was a licensed victualler at the Coach and Horses in East Street, Taunton before moving to 14 Cyril Street. His mother was Ellen Mary Jennings and he had six brothers and two sisters. Cyril died on 6th November 1917 aged 19 and is buried in Beersheeba War Cemetery in Israel.
TAYLOR	William Horace	Private 44118 10th Yorkshire Light Infantry, formely 183561 Royal Horse Artillery. William was born in Toronto, Canada in 1887. The family later returned to England and lived in 28 Fowler Street, Taunton. He married Georgina Matravers in Taunton in 1906 and was a grocer's assistant. William died on 4th October 1917 aged 30 and is buried in Tyne Cot Cemetery in Belgium.
THORNE	Horace Charles	Private 1810 1st Royal Marine Light Infantry. Horace was born in Taunton on 12th April 1898 and his father Robert William Clements Thorne was a leather worker in the tan yard. His mother was Alice Jane Salter and they were married in St James Church, Taunton on 26th May 1889. In 1911 the family lived at 6 York Terrace and Horace was a Tram Driver before the War. He died on 7th April 1918 aged 19 and is buried in Gezaincourt Communal Cemetery in France.
TYTE	William George	Rifleman 2960 8th King's Royal Rifle Corps. Born in 1895 in Belvedere, Kent and his father was George James Tyte an engineer. In 1911 William was living with his mother Emily Annie Shewring at 3 Jubilee Street, Taunton. William died on 29th September 1916 aged 21 and is buried in St Sever Cemetery, Rouen in France.
VIGERS	Arthur Finch	Private 295357 12th Somerset Light Infantry, formerly 1598 West Somerset Yeomanry. Arthur was born in Lydney in 1890 to William Vigers, a Carriage Painter, and Anna Webber. In 1901 Arthur was living at 3 Portman Street, Taunton and by 1911 he was a Furnace Worker living at 10 Greenway Road. He died on 2nd September 1918 aged 28 and is buried in Peronne Cemetery in France.
WARR	Ernest Andrew	Private 14414 2nd Royal Fusiliers. Ernest was born in Taunton in 1893 and the family lived at 6 Belgrave Place, Taunton. By 1911 Ernest was a soldier living in Hounslow Barracks. His father Isaac Warr was a Mason's Labourer and his mother Elizabeth Davey worked in a shirt factory. Ernest died on 25th April 1915 aged 21 and is commemorated on the Helles Memorial in Gallipoli.
WATTS	Sidney Gilbert	Private 6168 Royal Army Medical Corps. Sidney was born in Congresbury in 1892, his father Arthur Edward Watts was a Railway Inspector and his mother was Laura Elizabeth Poultney. The family lived at 62 Greenway Avenue in Taunton. He was discharged from the Army on 14th August 1916 as unfit for further service. Sidney died at home on 24th September 1916 aged 24 and is buried in St James Cemetery in Taunton.
WEBBER	Edward Courtney	Guardsman 2037 4th Guards Machine Gun Regiment. Edward was born in Torquay, Devon in 1893 to William Webber (Cabman) and Elizabeth Courtney. In 1902 he married Mary Ley and the family moved to 2 Belgrave Place, Taunton where he became a House Painter. Edward died on 27th August 1918 aged 35 and is buried in Mory Abbey Military Cemetery in France.
WEBBER	Sydney William	Lance Corporal 34651 3rd Gloucestershire Regiment. Sydney was born in Wiveliscombe on 11th May 1885 to George Webber (Verger) and Mary Ann Davies. In 1901 the family lived at 46 Greenway Lane in Taunton and in 1908 Sydney married Florence Bigwood and became manager of a boot and shoe shop in Stoke on Trent. Sydney died on 6th JUne 1919 aged 34 and is buried in St Sepulchre's Cemetery in Poona, India.
WEBSTER	Henry Hugh	Leading Cook 347765 H.M.S. Seagull. Henry was born in Inniskilling on 9th October 1888 to Patrick Webster and Sarah Annie Clode. in 1901 he was Butcher's Boy in Bishops Hull before enlisting in the Royal Navy on 18th July 1907 whilst the family were living at 2 Goviers Cottages, Wood Street, Taunton. He died on board H.M.S. Seagull on 30 September 1918 aged 32 and is commemorated on the Naval Memorial at Plymouth Hoe.
WESCOMBE	Rodney James	Sergeant 7077 2nd Dorset Regiment. Rodney was born in Taunton on 13th June 1885. His father Henry was a Carpenter and mother Elizabeth Stambury a Dressmaker. The family lived at 18 Portman Street, Taunton before moving to 1 Raleigh Terrace by 1901. Rodney was a Grocer's Apprentice before the War and married Florence Anna Edie in Bombay whilst serving in the Army. He died on 6th September 1917 aged 32 and is buried in Amara War Cemetery in Iraq.
WESTCOTT	Harry Cecil	Private 11456 8th Gloucestershire Regiment. Harry was born in Taunton in 1886 to James Westcott, House Painter and Eliza Jane. In 1911 the family were living at 7 George Street, Taunton where Harry was also a House Painter. Harry enlisted in the Army at Gloucester but was killed on 25th October 1916 aged 30. He is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in France.
WHITTLE	Cyril Herbert Spence	Lieutenant 15th Hussars. Cyril was born in Sculcoates, Yorkshire on 17th August 1883. His father Herbert John was a Barrister/Solicitor in Beverley and his mother was Caroline Haynes Hutchinson. An only child, Cyril was commissioned in the Yorkshire Light Infantry in 1902, later transferring to 15th Kings Hussars in December 1908. In January 1912, he was seconded to the Egyptian Army and later died at the Battle of Mons on 24th August 1914 aged 31. He is commemorated on Ferte-Sous-Jouarre Memorial in France.
WITHEY	Frank Tom	Private 175969 Royal Army Service Corps. Frank was born in Taunton in 1890 and baptised at St Andrews Church. His father Thomas was a Monumental Mason and his mother was Amelia Tape. The family lived at 4 Cherry Grove, Taunton before moving to 17 Salisbury Street. Frank died on 22nd October 1916 aged 27 and is buried in Voi Cemetery in Kenya.
YEANDLE	William Andrew	Rifleman 301477 2nd London Regiment. William was born in Taunton in 1896. He was an Ironmonger's Apprentice and lived with his mother Emma at 8 St Andrews Terrace, Cheddon Road, Taunton in 1911. He died on 9th September 1917 aged 22 and is buried in the Divisional Collecting Post Cemetery in Belgium.

1939-1945
BIBBINGS	Kenneth John	Signalman D/JX 163238, H.M.S. Sultan, Royal Navy. Died of malnutrition as a Japanese Prisoner of War at Palembang, Sumatra, 27 August 1945. Aged 21. Born 1 February 1924 in Newton Abbot, Devon. Son of George H. Bibbings and Gertrude Florence Bibbings, of Rowbarton, Taunton, Somerset. Buried in Jakarta War Cemetery, Indonesia. Plot 1. Row E. Grave 6. Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1946: BIBBINGS Kenneth John of 7 Addison-grove Taunton died 27 August 1945 on war service Administration Exeter 26 July to Gertrude Florence Bibbings (wife of George Henry Bibbings). Effects £340 17s. 11d.
BRYSON	Edward	Able Seaman, S.S. Alnmoor, Merchant Navy. Vessel missing supposed drowned 15 February 1941. Aged 54. Last known address 33, Hugo Street, Glasgow N.W. No known grave. Commemorated on Tower Hill Memorial, London. Panel 6.
BUNFIELD	Harold Bernard	Private 5575949, Gloucestershire Regiment. Died on service 7 July 1944. Aged 22. Born Somerset, resident Wiltshire. Son of William Charles and Violet Bunfield. Previouslyu wounded 6 November 1943. Buried in Kirkee War Cemetery, India. Plot 8. Row E. Grave 12.
CADDY	William Metford	Signalman 5672704, 18th Division Signals, Royal Corps of Signals. Died of acute enteritis as a Japanese Prisoner of War 2 September 1943 while working on Thailand-Burma Railway. Aged 23. Son of Metford James Caddy and Lucy Jane Caddy, of Taunton, Somerset. Buried in Chungkai War Cemetery, Thailand. Plot 5. Row F. Grave 8. Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1946: CADDY William Metford of 38 Herbert-street Rowbarton Taunton died 2 September 1943 on war service Probate Exeter 18 February to Brenda Phyllis Blight (wife of Vincent Charles Blight). Effects £158 5s. 5d.
DINGLE	Clifford Rodney Haig	Lieutenant 324480, 3rd Carabiniers (Prince of Wales's Dragoon Guards), Royal Armoured Corps. Killed in action 28 February 1945. Aged 26. Born and resident Somerset. Son of Rodney John and Elsie Dingle, of Taunton, Somerset; husband of Grace Beatrice (nee McLoughlin) Dingle, of Taunton, married January to March Quarter 1940 in Taunton. Buried in Taukkyan War Cemetery, Myanmar. Plot 19. Row H. Grave 20.
EVERED	Percy John	Private 5671537, 2nd Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment formerly The Somerset Light Infantry (Prince Albert's). Killed in action 1 June 1944. Aged 22. Born and resident Somerset. Son of Frederick Langdon Evered and Florence Evered, of Rowbarton, Taunton, Somerset. Buried in Beach Head War Cemetery, Anzio, Italy. Plot XVII. Row F. Grave 12.
GREEN	Kenneth Frederick	Sergeant 574948, 97 Squadron, Royal Air Force. Died on service 29 March 1943. Aged 20. Son of Frederick Edward and Ethel Green, of Taunton, Somerset. No known grave. Commemorated on Runnymede Memorial, Surrey. Panel 151
HAKE	Jack	Petty Officer (Air Mechanic) FAA/FX 80030, Fleet Air Arm, H.M.S. Eagle, Royal Navy. Died at sea 11 August 1942. Aged 23. Born 27 July 1919 in Bristol. Son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Hake, of Taunton, Somerset. No known grave. Commemorated on Lee-on-Solent Memorial, Hampshire. Bay 3, Panel 4
HAWKINS	Frederick Charles	Stoke 1st Class D/KX112423, H.M.S. Marne, Royal Navy. Died at sea 25 August 1942. Aged 21. Born 25 February 1921 in Taunton. Son of Frederick Augustus and Alice Maud Hawkins, of Taunton, Somerset; husband of Winifred May (nee Combes) Hawkins, of Taunton, married in October to December Quarter 1938 in Taunton. No known grave. Commemorated on Plymouth Naval Memorial, Devon. Panel 70, Column 1.
HEWLETT	Sidney Clifford	Private 5680756, 11th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry. Killed in action in North West Europe 12 August 1944. Aged 33. Born 2 December 1910, and resident, Taunton, Somerset. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Hewlett; husband of Hilda D. Hewlett, of Rowbarton, Taunton, Somerset. In the 1911 census he was newborn, born Taunton, Somerset, son of Henry and Lucy Amelia Hewlett, resident Middleway, Sherford, Taunton, Wilton, Somerset. In the 1939 Register he was a Shop Assistant in a Grocery Department, married to Hilda, resident 10 Peter Street, Taunton, Taunton M.B., Somerset,. No known grave. Commemorated on Bayeux Memorial, France. Panel 17, Column 1.
JAMES	John Stanley	Driver T/168212, 5th Division Troops Company, Royal Army Service Corps. Died as the result of an accident in Italy 22 November 1943. Aged 26. Born Devon, resident Somerset. Son of James Edward and Ann Blanche James, of Rowbarton, Taunton, Somerset. Buried in Cassino War Cemetery, Italy. Section 8. Plot VIII. Row D. Grave 18.
JENNESS	Geoffrey James	Sapper 2075516, 25th Field Company, Royal Engineers. Accidentally killed in the United Kingdom 8 September 1940. Aged 20. Born and resident Somerset. Son of William James Jenness and Beatrice Matilda Jenness; husband of Kathleen Vera (nee Coles) Jenness, of Taunton in the January to March Quarter 1940 in Taunton. Buried in Taunton (St Mary's) Cemetery, Somerset. Grave 2/597. Extract from Taunton Courier, and Western Advertiser - Saturday 14 September 1940, page 6: SAPPER JENNESS. The funeral service Sapper Jenness was held St. Andrew’s Church, and was conducted by the Vicar, the Rev. F. L Sheppard, assisted the Curate, the Rev. F. L. D. Elias. The service was choral, the hymns, "King of Love, my Shepherd is” and ‘He who would valiant be” were sung. The Psalm, “The Lord is my Shepherd” and the Nunc Dimxttis were chanted. Mr. Louis Hulatt was the organist, and in addition played “Solemn Melody” (Walford Davies), Prelude in C Minor (Chopin), and “Dead March” (Handel). The Vicar afterwards officiated at the Interment. The family mourners were;— Mrs, K. V. Jenness (wife), Mrs. W. J. Jenness (mother). Mr. and Mrs L. Telling (uncle and aunt). Mr. J. Maxwell (uncle), Mrs J, Iles (cousin), Mr Leonard Telling, Exeter (cousin), Mr. and Mrs. W. Coles (father-in-law and mother-in-law). Misses Nellie and Gwen Coles (sisters-in-law). Mr. F. N Penny (friend). The Taunton Y.M.C.A was represented by J. King. The funeral arrangements were entrusted to Mr. Leonard E. Smith, 1, Haydon-road, Taunton. Extract from Local Paper: MILITARY HONOURS AT THE FUNERALS AN ONLY CHILD Sapper Jenness was nearly 21 years of age, and was the only child of Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Jenness, of 25, Bridge-street, Taunton. He had been in the Army since the outbreak of the war, having previously served in the Territorials for some time. He was a keen athlete, and follower of all sports He had played Association football for the Taunton Amateurs, and for the Taunton Y.M.C.A. teams. He had also represented the Y.M.C.A. at cricket and table tennis. He was educated at North Town School, and on leaving was employed by Messrs. Geo. Osmond as Co., organ builders, Priory Bridge-road, Taunton. After he had been there for three and a-half years he returned to work at his father's garage in Bridge street until he was called up. His father, Mr. William Jenness, is the well-known speedway and grass-track motor cyclist. MARRIED AT EASTER Sapper Jenness was married at Easter of this year, and leaves a nineteen-years old bride, who was formerly Miss Kathleen Coles, of 41 Lyngford Square. Her cousin, Sapper Ivor Kitchener Coles, who was also killed, was the youngest son of Mrs. H Tarrant, of 41. Baldwin-road, and the late Sergeant William Henry Coles, of the Somerset Light Infantry who was killed in the first battle of the Somme in 1916. He was educated at Mary-street Memorial School, and on leaving worked at Messrs. James Pearsall & Co. Ltd., at the East street Mills. Some years ago he was a member of the Temple Boys' Brigade and the Temple Sunday School. He has a brother who is a Sergeant In the Palestine Police and also a step-brother who is in the Royal Air Force. Recently he spent seven days' leave at Taunton returning to his unit on August 23rd. He had been on service since September, 1939, having previously served in the Territorials. SAPPER JENNESS The funeral service of Sapper Jenness was held in St. Andrew's Church, and was conducted by the Vicar, the Rev F. L. Sheppard, assisted by the Curate, the Rev. D. Elias. The service was choral, the hymns, "King of Love, my Shepherd is" and "He who would valiant be" were sung, The Psalm, "The Lord is my Shepherd" and the Nunc Dimittfs were chanted. Mr Louis Hulatt was the organist and in addition played "Solemn Melody" (Walford Davies), Prelude In C Minor (Chopin), and "Dead March" (Handel). The Vicar afterwards officiated at the interment. The family mourners were:— Mrs. K. V. Jenness (wife), Mrs, W. J. Jenness (mother), Mr. and Mrs. L. Telling (uncle and aunt), Mr J. Maxwell (uncle), Mrs. J. Iles (cousin), Mr. Leonard Telling, Exeter (cousin), Mr. and Mrs. W. Coles (father-in-law and mother-in-law), Misses Nellie and Gwen Coles (sisters-in-law), Mr F. N. Penny (friend). The Taunton Y.M.C.A was represented by J. King. The funeral arrangements were entrusted to Mr. Leonard E, Smith, 1, Haydon-road, Taunton.
JONES	Leslie Douglas	Aircraftman 2nd Class 909930, R.A.F. Seletar (Medical Unit - Far East Command West Group), Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Died as a Japanese Prisoner of War 24 June 1944 when the ship he was being transported on to Japan was torpedoed and sunk. Aged 24. Born 19 August 1919 [Army Record] or 17 August 1919 [1939 Register]. Son of Leonard Wilfrid and Emily Jones, of 40, Greenway Avenue, Rowbarton, Taunton, Somerset. In the 1939 Register he was a G.W.R. (Great Western Railway) Goods Porter Heavy Water, resident with his parents at 40, Greenway Avenue, Taunton, Taunton M.B., Somerset. No known grave. Commemorated on Singapore Memorial, Kranji War Cemetery, Singapore. Column 442. Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1946: JONES Leslie Douglas of 40 Greenway-avenue Taunton died 25 June 1944 on war service Administration Exeter 1 January to Emily Jones (wife of Leonard Wilfred Jones). Effects. £300 8s. Id.
MATTHEWS	Jack	Pilot Officer (Navigator) 104437, 502 Squadron, Royal Air Force. Killed in action 23 August 1941. Aged 33. Son of Thomas and Elizabeth Matthews, husband of Poppie E. Matthews, of Rowbarton, Taunton. Buried in Taunton (St Mary's) Cemetery, Somerset. Grave 2/442. Extract from Local Paper: TAUNTON FUNERAL of PILOT OFFICER J. MATTHEWS The death in action of Pilot Officer Jack Matthews R.A.F. has caused deep regret among his many friends in Taunton Pilot Officer Matthews who was 33, lived in the town for three years when representing a firm of soap manufacturers He married a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. Fry 6. Belgrave-place. Rowbarton joining up in September. 1939. he had lived with his wife and four year-old daughter at Bristol where he represented Messrs. A & F Pears Ltd The body was brought back to Taunton for burial, and the funeral took place on Thursday. Before the interment at St Mary's Cemetery there was a service at St Andrew's, Rowbarton, the Vicar, the Rev. F. L. Sheppard officiating, Mr Louis Hulatt at the organ. The coffin was draped with the R.A.F. flag, and there was a bearer party consisting of five Aircraftman and an N.C.O. The chief mourners were — The wife: Mrs T. Matthews of Birkenhead (mother); Home Guard Clyde Matthews and Aircraftman Horace Matthews Farnham Surrey (brothers); Mr. H. Fry (father-in-law); Mr and Mrs J Hole. Barry (brother-in-law and sister-in-laws, and Mrs I. Musgrave Bridgwater (sister-in-law); Among friends at the church and graveside were Pilot Officer J Hutchinson representing deceased's squadron. Sergt P M Hollins an intimate friend from the squadron. Mr and Mrs H. Long and Donald Lona of Bristol. Mr and Mrs. W. Leat and others FLORAL TOKENS The following is a list of the floral tributes :— To my darling sweetheart. in lasting memory of the most wonderful husband and dandy in the world, from your broken-hearted Pops and Pat yours for ever, my sweet From Father. Mother Horace. and Grace. From Dad and Mum (Taunton);: From Jack Ada and Faintly (Barry) and Ivor. Amy. and Gen: Officer Commanding Officers N C O's and Airmen. — Squadron: Intimate Friends - Squadron: Mrs. Jarman and Betty: From Marie: Mr and Mrs. Yandle: Mr. and Mrs. P Lowe and Dorothy: Ciss. Blanche. and Will: Mrs Hutchings, Olive. and Peggy: Mr. and Mrs. Kellow: Mr. and Mrs T Blackmore and Cohn: Peen and Michael; Mrs Beames and Rosy: Annie and Charlie (Bristol): Mrs Skelcher. Marie and Pat; Mr and Mrs. Coombee, and Sheila; Wilf and Vesta. Mr and Mrs Cope The funeral arrangements were carried out by Hatcher & Sons. Ltd . Taunton.
OATEN	Edward Maurice	Gunner 899031, 55 (The West Somerset Yeomanry) Field Regiment, Royal Artillery. Killed in action in Western Europe 4 May 1945. Aged 29. Born St. Andrew's, Taunton, Somerset, resident Taunton, Somerset. Son of Edward and Edith Oaten; husband of Edith Oaten, of Barnsley, Yorkshire. Buried in Becklingen War Cemetery, Niedersachsen, Germany. Plot 1. Row G. Grave 1.
PAYNE	Stanley Walter Henry	Fireman, Taunton A.F.S. (Auxiliary Fire Service). Son of Reginald Stanley and Lily Naomi Payne, of 4 Roman Road, Taunton, Somerset; husband of Gladys Victoria (nee Crossman) Payne, of 6, Raleigh Terrace, Taunton, married April to June Quarter 1928 in Taunton. Died at Tramway Centre, 11 April 1941. Aged 35. In the 1911 census he was aged 5, born West Monkton, Somerset, at school, son of Reginald Stanley and Lily Naomi Payne, resident Thorn Falcon, Taunton, Somerset. Registered by Bristol Borough Council as Civilian War Dead. Extract from Taunton Courier, and Western Advertiser - Saturday 19 April 1941, page 6: TWO TAUNTON FIREMEN LOSE THEIR LIVES ANOTHER SERIOUSLY HURT IMPRESSIVE TRIBUTES AT THE FUNERAL Taunton Auxiliary Fire Service has suffered a great loss by the deaths two of its leading members and the permanent incapacity oi a third. The dead men are:—Mr. George Clemett (40). of 53, Priorswood-road, Taunton, a part-time member of the A.F.S. and formerly a well-known footballer, and Mr. Stanley Paine [sic](35), a full-time member of 6 Raleigh-terrace, Taunton. Both had served the A.F.S. with great devotion and fearlessness. The injured man, Mr. Albert Thresher (25). 7, Alma-street, had been released from the Army serve a regular member of the A.F.S. His left leg has been amputated and his right leg is injured All three men in civil life were employees of Messrs. F. C. Spear. Ltd., building contractors Mr. Clemett being one the firm's leading hands Mr F. C. Spear is the Chief Fire Brigade Officer. WELL-KNOWN FOOTBALLER. Followers the old Taunton Town Football Club will remember George Clemett one of its most regular players during the seasons when the Club competed in the Southern League and other important competitions His recognised position was at left half, but in an emergency he could successfully switch to full back or forward. In defence he was a real stumbling block to many of the best forwards, and in attack he was equally tireless, and made many fine individual efforts. After the Taunton Town Club disbanded he joined the Gheddon-road A.F.C.. and his experienced guidance, both on and off the field, was a great asset to the younger players. The deepest sympathy has been expressed with the stricken families—Mrs. Clemett. her son and daughter; Mrs. Payne and her two sons: and Mrs Thresher, who is serving in the A.T.S. SERVICE AT ST. MARY'S IMPRESSIVE FUNERAL SCENES. Amid many manifestations of public sympathy, the funerals of both men took place on Thursday. Before the interment in the Churchyard at Cheddon Fitzpaine, there was a service at St. Mary's, Taunton, which was attended by officers and members th e Taunton A.F.S., visiting contingents, representatives of the A.R.P. service, and other public mourners. The A.F.S. paraded at the Fire Station and marched to the church by way of Tancred-street, East-street, Fore-street, and Hammet-street. The Taunton A.F.S. were at the head of the procession, led by Second Officer Cridge, and were followed by the Chief Officer, Mr. F. C. Spear, with the District Officer, Chief Officer J. W Connolly of Bridgwater. Then came the borough fire engine, driven by Fireman J. Dominey. on which ware carried the two coffins, covered Union Jacks. Both the fire engine and the following tender were covered with wreaths. BEARER PARTIES. Accompanying the cortege were the two bearer parties—Section Officer Gimblett, Section Officer Hazell, and A/F Phillips, Boobyer, Twyford, and Trott (bearers for A/F Payne), and Section Officer Owen, A/F Pearse. Richards. Goldsworthy, Waddon. and Broom (bearers for A/F Clemett). At the rear of the procession came visiting A.F.S. contingents and other representatives. The visiting A.F.S. parties included Wellington (A/F Andrews and Thorne), Bridgwater. Buraham-on-Sea (Chief Officer W. C. Pugsley), Williton (Chief Officer R. E. Jackman), Watchet (Captain F. Webber), Dulverton (Second Officer A. J. German), and Minehead (Chief Officer Capron), &c. Others in the parade included : —Captain Edney and Sergt. Knowles. Somerset Light Infantry (representing the I.T.C. Fire Service), Commandant F. J. Moore (Taunton Men's Detachment, V.A.D.), and Mr W C. Fisher (representing Colonel Turner Jones, the Somerset County A.R.P. Controller). GUARD OF HONOUR. On reaching Hammet-street, the marching contingent divided into two ranks to form a guard of honour, joining up with members of the Taunton Borough Fire Brigade and a party representing the Taunton A.R.P. service. A.F.S men saluted as the coffins passed. The A.R.P. personnel represented the whole of the posts in the borough. The party was charge of Mr. A D. Carnes, head warden for the borough, and Mr. G. Croker (deputy head warden). Mr. C. Crothers represented the Area Organiser. Major Cockburn Mercer, and other officers in attendance were Colonel A. Logan (transport officer) and Mr. C. H. Waterworth (chief area warden). The Taunton First-aid Post was represented by Mrs. Arnold and Mrs. Wheeler. The service was conducted by Preb. W. H. Heaton Renshaw (vicar), assisted by the Rev. C. Graham (rector of Cheddon Fitzpaine) and the Rev. Donald Shiels (curate of St. Mary'sl. Clergy and choir met the cortege the church entrance, and as the flag-draped coffins were carried to the chancel. Mr. Herbert Knott (organist) played suitable music. Included in the service were the hymns, Fight the good fight" and " O God our help," the 23rd Psalm, "The Lord is My Shepherd," and the "Nunc Dimittis." the cortege left the organist played Walford Davies' " Solemn Melody." FAMILY MOURNERS. The family mourners were:— Mrs. G E. Clemett (wife), Mrs. F. Jones (sister), Messrs. Tom, Albert, Wilfred, and David Clemett (brothers), Mr. W. Ravenhill (brother-in-law), Mr and Mrs. L. Dew and Mr. and Mrs. R. Troake (friends). Mrs. Payne, wife; Mr. and Mrs. R. Payne, Sarents; Pte. H. Payne (R.A.M.C.) and A./C. D. Payne, brothers: Miss N Payne. Miss Pat Payne, sisters; Mr. and Mrs Derrick, brotherin-law and sister: Mr. and Mrs. Salter, brother-dn-law and sister; Messrs. J. and D. Crossman, brothers-in-law; Mr. S. Best (Merriott), Mr. and Mrs. Trebble (Pyrland Farm), Mr. and Mrs. Crossman. Mr. A. Garland, Mr. A. Edwards (friends). PUBLIC REPRESENTATIVES. Among the public mourners were Dr. A. J. H. lies, Deputy-Mayor of Taunton (also representing the Mayor, Councillor C. H. Goodland), Mr. J. E. Newton (representing Mr. Harold King, clerk to the County Council), Councillor W E. Maynard (chairman of Taunton Fire Brigade Committee), Alderman F. W. Pritchett Brown, Alderman F. S Dodson, Mr. L. Atwell (town clerk), Mr. C. Knight (representing Alderman F. W. Penny), Mr. B. J. C. Roberts. Mr. Stuart Goodman, Mr. J. A. D. Wilson, Mr. E. G. Coles (waterworks manager, and formerly Captain the Taunton Fire Brigade), the Rev. F. E. Boorman, Mr. J. McLean (representing the old Taunton Town A.F.C.), Mr. W. Sharp (representing Taunton Amateurs' A.F.C.). Mr. E. V. Allen represented Messrs. F. C. Spear, Ltd., and among other employees of the firm present were Messrs. Tom Rowcliffe and F. C. Goddard. Mrs. F. C. Spear attended. The church was filled with sympathisers, and many hundreds of people lined Hammet-street and the other streets along the route taken by the funeral procession. BURIAL AT CHEDDON FITZPAINE. The burial was at Cheddon Fitzpaine, where Mr. Payne had family associations. Many people from the district were present. The service was conducted by the Rector, the Rev. Christopher Graham. The two graves were side by side in the churchyard. Parties of firemen also attended, and after the service each man saluted the graves. There were many beautiful flowers, including tributes from Taunton A.F.S. mates; Members of No. and No. 8 squads; Taunton Regular Brigade: Taunton Regular A.F.S.; Taunton Hospital Volunteer Fire Brigade; A.R.P. Wardens. Taunton area; Wardens of Post 8.2; Fellow employees of Messrs. F. C. Spear & Co.; and from Fire Services in various parts, including Burnham-on-Sea, Watchet. and Bridgwater. Messrs. W. & A. Chapman, Ltd., carried out the funeral arrangements.
SMALL	Jack Hembrow	Captain 88396, 2nd Battalion, The Somerset Light Infantry (Prince Albert's). Killed in action in Italy 19 July 1944. Aged 29. Born Bristol, resident Somerset. Son of Edward and Lily Small; husband of Doreen (nee East) Small, of Brighton, Sussex, married April to June Quarter 1944 in Hove Registration District, Sussex. Buried in Arezzo War Cemetery, Italy. Plot III. Row B. Grave 27. Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1944: SMALL Jack Hembrow of 5 Cheddon-road Taunton died 19 July 1944 on war service Administration Lewes 30 December to Doreen Small widow. Effects £434 15s. 1d.
SMITH	Kenneth James	Sergeant (Air Bomber) 1314139, 21 O.T.U., Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Died 17 September 1942. Aged 19. Birth registered in the October to December Quarter 1922 in Taunton. Son of Charles Frederick and Mabel Lilian Smith, of Taunton, Somerset. Buried in Heverlee War Cemetery, Vlaams-Brabant, Belgium. Plot 7. Row K. Grave 5.
STOCKMAN	Robert Roy	Writer D/SMX 350, H.M.S. Anking, Royal Navy. Died at sea as a Japanese Prisoner of War 4 March 1942. Aged 20. Born 10 September 1921 in Taunton, Somerset. Son of Arthur Frank and Clara Emma Stockman, of Rowbarton, Somerset. No known grave. Commemorated on Plymouth Naval Memorial, Devon. Panel 71, Column 3. Extract from Taunton Courier, and Western Advertiser - Saturday 21 February 1942, page 4: IN SINGAPORE? BOB STOCKMAN WAS AT NAVAL BASE. Among local men who are thought to have been in Singapore at the time of its surrender is Writer Robert Roy ("Bob") Stockman, aged 20. of the Royal Navy, only son of Mr. and Mrs. A. F. Stockman. 20. Green-way Crescent., Taunton. He Ieft England in August to serve on the China station and was posted to H.M.S. Sultan, the Singapore naval depot. His parents have frequently received letters from him, all written before Singapore was threatened Bob then stated that he was enjoying himself very much and was playing rugby football and soccer for the Naval base against teams from warships. In the past he had distinguished himself at rugby and was a constant member of the Taunton club's team for several seasons until he joined the Navy in March, 1941. He is an old boy of Taunton School and on leaving was employed at Avimo, as a draughtsman. He later worked as an accountant in an office in Hammet-street.
THATCHER	Alfred Charles	Petty Officer Cook (O) 14763, H.M.S. Dorsetshire, Royal Navy. Died at sea 5 April 1942. Aged 36. Born 31 July 1905 in Taunton, Somerset. Son of William and Clara Lavina Thatcher; husband of Hilda Mary Thatcher, of Stratton, Wiltshire. Originally enlisted circa 29 November 1923, height 5 feet 3½ inches, chest 34 inches, black hair, brown eyes, fresh complexion, occupation Port Assistant. No known grave. Commemorated on Plymouth Naval Memorial, Devon. Panel 72, Column 1.
WEBBER	Reginald James	Trooper 7905302, 44th, Royal Tank Regiment, Royal Armoured Corps. Died of wounds as a Prisoner of War 6 July 1942. Aged 25. Born 7 February 1917, and resident Somerset. Son of Lionel James Webber and Emily Webber, of Taunton, Somerset; husband of Margaret Lilian (nee Sandy) Webber, of Taunton, married October to December 1940 in Taunton, Somerset. In the 1939 Register he was a Grocer's Assistant, living with his wiowed father at 58 Kingston Road, Taunton, Taunton M.B., Somerset,. Buried in Caserta War Cemetery, Italy. Plot III. Row A. Grave 20. Extract from England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1944: WEBBER Reginald James of 6 Taunton-terrace Taunton died 6 July 1942 on war service Administration Exeter 8 July to Margaret Lilian Webber widow. Effects £285 12s. 8d.
WOOLLEY	Alexander Wilfred aka Alec	Driver 14212779, 1 Air Formation Signals, Royal Corps of Signals. Died on service in Italy 26 October 1943. Aged 21. Son of Mr. and Mrs. C. Woolley, of Rowbarton, Taunton, Somerset. Buried in Naples War Cemetery, Italy. Plot III. Row L. Grave 2.

Last updated 1 September, 2020

War Memorials Trust