James Gregory was born in Bolton on 20th January 1888. A herbal brewer, James married Clara Chadbond and together they had 3 children: James (b. 20.10.1909); Clara (b. 21.02.1911) and John (b. 04.08.1913). Unfortunately both Clara (May 1911) and John (June 1914) died in infancy leaving James as their only surviving child.

James Gregory was killed during the Battle of the Somme whilst serving with the 9th Bn. Loyal North Lancs Regiment on Friday 20th October 1916.