William Preece was born about 1899. He was baptised on 29 January 1899 in Newbold, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, the son of Allen and Elizabeth Preece.
In 1901, two years old Willie Preece was living with his parents Allen and Elizabeth, and siblings: John aged 5, James aged 4, and sister Clara aged 2 months. The family were living at Occupation Road, Newbold, Chesterfield.
In 1911, 12 years old Willie Preece is living with his parents Allen and Elizabeth and nine sibings; Allen aged 16, John Thomas 15, James 13, Clara 10, Harriet 9, Gladis 7, Liza 6, Jenney 4, and Elizabeth 7 months. A tenth sibling named Mary is recorded as dead and her entry is crossed out. The family are living at 28 Compton Street, Holmwood Heath, Derbyshire.
William Preece aged 20 was married on 26 December 1918 to Minnie Makin aged 20, daughter of Peter William Makin. They were married at the Parish Church, Maltby, Yorkshire.
In 1921, William Preece and wife Minnie, are living with Minnie's parents Peter and Emily Makin, and daughter Phyllis Preece aged 2 years, William is recorded as a Colliery Labourer at Maltby Main Colliery. Their address is recorded as Muglet Lane, Maltby, Rotherham.
The death of William Preece aged 24 was registered in March 1924 in Doncaster district.