William Jones, Leading Stoker

William Jones, Leading Stoker, Mercantile Marine Reserve, HMS Tara. Lost at sea as a result of enemy action, age 58, on 5 November 1915 in the Mediterranean Sea.

Born at Holyhead in 1859 he was the husband of Mary (Martha) Jones (nee Owen). They married at Holyhead in 1878. In 1911 the family lived at Bryn Melian, 1 Erw Terrace, Holyhead. The census does not record William Jones at the address. However, at the address was Martha Jones (51), born at Trearddur Bay, Anglesey, Robert William Jones (16), employed as a Groom, Owen Richard Jones (15), employed as a Grocer's Errand Boy, Annie Grace Jones (13) and Catherine Jones (1). In 1901 the family lived at 2 Yr Erw, Holyhead. At that time three older children, Maggie Jane (19), Kate (12) and Mary Ellen (9) were part of the family. In all William and Matha Jones had 10 children, with 8 surviving in 1911.

William and Martha Jones' son Owen Richard Jones lost his life on 20 March 1916, whilst serving with the 14th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers on the Western Front.

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

Commemorated on the Plymouth Naval Memorial, Panel 9.