Robert Phillips, Leading Stoker

Robert Phillips, Leading Stoker, Mercantile Marine Reserve, HMS Tara. Lost at sea due to enemy action, age 59, on 5 November 1915.

Born at Holyhead, he was the son of Robert and Mary Phillips. His father was a Railway Labourer who originated from Coventry. In 1861 the family lived at Bath Street, Holyhead. He was the husband of Mary Phillips of 14 Well Street, Holyhead.

In 1911 the family were living at the same address. The census records Mary Phillips (50), her married daughter, Mary Rowlands (28), Maggie (18), Lizzie (15), Lily (11). Robert (14), James Merfyn (7) and Harry Evans Davies (2) - adopted. At the same time Robert Phillips is recorded serving on SS Rathmore, berthed at Holyhead Harbour, as a Head Stoker. Another child, Sarah was born in about 1888.

Robert and Mary married in about 1891. Mary originated from Sandbanks, Cornwall. She died at Holyhead in 1929, aged 67.

Awarded the Mercantile Marine Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal.

Commemorated on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial, panel 9. He is remembered on a family grave at Holyhead (Maeshyfryd) Burial Board Cemetery.

With thanks to Bob Phillips for providing the photograph of his grandfather.