Abbott, A. and M. A.
Alfred Abbott, a postman, died on 3 April 1942, age 55, at his home at 8 Priory Gate Road. His wife, Martha Annie Abbott, was injured there and died, aged 56, at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road. She was the daughter of Mrs Meyers, of 170 Lewisham Road, according to CWGC (in fact Mrs Meyers was her daughter).

The couple had married on 2 July 1917 at the register office in Dover. Mr Abbott was then at the Castle, serving in the Royal Garrison Artillery. Born on 6 November 1887, he was the son of George William, a chronometer maker, and of his wife Louisa, and was one of ten children. Discharged from the army on 28 June 1928, he had become a soldier by 1911, though still registered at home with his family at 11 Tintern Road, Wood Green, Middlesex. Ten years previously, with the family living at 1 Enfield Terrace, Hornsey, Middlesex, Alfred had been an errand boy. His new wife had been in 1891 and 1901 at 2 Ethelbert Road, Dover; born on 23 April 1885, she was the daughter of James Henry Newing, a labourer and then carter (coal) who possibly died in 1912, and of his wife Maria, died 1901, both buried at Charlton. Mr Newing may have remarried, to Annie, in about 1906.

The Abbotts had three children; Alfred, born in 1920, who died very soon afterwards, Annie M, born 1922, and Elsie C, born 1925. Mrs Abbott had another daughter, Margaret Alice Newing, born 2 March 1907, daughter of William Charles. In 1939 the Abbots, with Margaret and her husband Stephen William Meyers, born 28 March 1906, a colliery hewer, who had married in 1930, were living at 8 Priory Gate Road. Mr Abbott was a postman (cycle).

Mr and Mrs Abbott's funeral was on 8 April, leaving from 23 Douglas Road with the coffins draped in Union flags. They were interred in the same grave at Charlton, Dover, 32 ZC, with the Rev Jenkins of Christchurch and the Rev Horsley of Eythorne officiating. Many postal workers were present at the funeral, alongside the family. The family included Mr and Mrs Abbott's daughters and Mrs Abbott's brother William and his wife, Annie, Mrs Abbott's sister Maud, who married Thomas Norris Williams in 1909, and her sister Emily, who married George Decent (remembered on this page) in 1915, and George and Charles Abbott, two of Mr Abbott's brothers.

Mr Abbott's effects were granted to Margaret Alice Meyers and to Doris Louisa Richards, née Abbott, wife of Cyril Albert Richards.

Mrs Abbott was remembered as a warm cuddly person.

(Article) Mr and Mrs Abbott were remembered in the Service of Remembrance for Civilians - November 2007.

Abbott, V. G
Victor Gordon Abbott. He was an ambulance driver who was killed in an ambulance at Limekiln Street on 25 October 1940, aged 28. He was a member of the F A P and was the husband of Violet L L Abbott, née Wyatt, of 3 Council House Street, and the son of William Sidney Abbott, born 22 April 1884, and Sarah Emily née Clark, born 14 October 1881, of 2 Old Folkestone Road. They had married in 1905 and in 1939 Mr Abbott was a dock timekeeper for the Southern Railway.

Victor's parents were unable to attend his funeral on 30 October owing to evacuation through illness, but many of his remaining family were at his graveside at Charlton, Dover, ZC 31 as were members of the St John's Ambulance and the First Aid Posts.

There were very many flowers laid. The wreath from his wife read: "His loving Wife and Baby Pam, to my dearest Husband and darling Daddy". 

	Just a year ago tomorrow You left this world of strife; We have lost, heaven has gained, One of the best the world contained from his loving daughter Pamela and wife Vi Only goodnight, beloved; not farewell Mum and Dad He left this world without a tear, He said goodbye to none; His spirit flew before we knew That from us he had gone (brother) from Queenie, Ern, and Brian Out of turmoil into eternal peace (brother) Ivy, Fred, Roy, and Colin
Without farewell he fell asleep, With only memories left to keep; Sleep on, dear brother, God knows best, On earth, there's strife; in heaven, rest (brother) from Frank and Nan
October 1941	The call was sudden, the shock severe, I little thought the end so near; Only those who have lost can tell The parting without farewell his loving sister Pat You have taken that last long journey, In God' beautiful ship called "Rest", &ecute Away from this world of sorrow To the home of eternal rest. We often pasue and think of you, And think of how you died To think we could not say goodbye Before you closed your eyes from his sister and brother-in-law, Elsie and Reg

Victor Abbott's brother Sidney William had previously died suddenly at Swan Hill hospital, Australia, on 31 December 1932, aged 27.

Amos, L. E.
Lena Ellen Amos. She died at 1 Townwall Passage on 11 September 1940, aged 20. Married in 1938, she was the wife of Albert Henry Amos, First Class Stoker, Royal Navy, born 16 June 1915, and the daughter of Mr F. C. Terry, of 96 Maid Street, Maidstone. Her younger sister Doris Irene Terry also died but her mother was rescued after three and a half hours trapped in rubble. Stoker Lowe tunnelled in to free her, having already helped free Mr Richardson, the only survivor of the Sussex Arms, Townwall Street.

Lena had a five month old daughter Jean who survived, protected by the body of her mother. We were told that her pram had been under the stairs. Jean was rescued by Jack Hewitt, who relates in his biography "Greetings, Dover", compiled by Derek Leach, that he was later recommended for a George Medal for this action. Jack met Jean again, in 1980.

The funerals were held at St. James, Dover, Mrs Amos, Grave 23 ER, and Miss Terry. The cortège left from 16 Maxton Road, the home of Mr Terry, their grandfather. Mrs Terry, their mother, was still recovering from her injuries, and was unable to attend. The headstone reads:

"In Memory Of Ena Ellen Amos, Killed By Enemy Action, 11 September 1940. Aged 20 Years"

In fondest memory of my darling Leana Ellen Amos, killed by enemy action, 11 September 1940. Gone, but not forgotten. From her loving husband, Bert (H.M.S. Cathay)

photo and transcription, with thanks to Joyce Banks
note - "Bert" Amos died in 1980. In 1939 he was at 21 Maxton Road. He remarried in 1949 to Marjorie L Bennett.

Ashbee, A.V.
Albert Victor Ashbee was the son of George Ashbee and his wife Emily. In 1901 the family were living at 5 Alexander Cottages, Dover, where Mr Ashbee was working as a shoeing smith. There too were son George, aged 20, a general engineer, and Albert, 17, an Engineer's Apprentice.

In 1908 in Dover Albert married Martha Annie R Cairns, and by 1911 they were living at 7 Model Buildings, Saltwood. Albert was a railway porter.  The couple may have had four children; Emily, Albert, Irene, and John. In 1935, Albert became the licensee of the Ancient Druids, Stembrook.

He was killed while walking in St James Street on 20 October 1940, aged 57. He was buried four days later at St Mary's, Dover, 8 GB, with the funeral cortege leaving from 144 Clarendon Street.

 

The call was sudden, the shock severe, I little thought his end so near; Only those who have lost can tell The parting without farewell His loving wife, Martha In the midst of life we are in death (dad) Bert, Dorothy and Marie Jeanne Without farewell, he fell asleep, With only memories left to keep. Sleep on, dear Dad, God knows best, On earth, there's strife; in heaven there's rest Remembered always by Jack and Ella In loving memory - Rene and Wally, Ever remembered - Jack and Em

Ashdown, W. R.
William Richard Ashdown was the son of John and Susan Ashdown.  On Christmas Day 1920 at Buckland Church William married Edith Emily Tolputt; their parents lived at 11 and 8 George Street, respectively.

William was injured by bomb blast on 6 October 1940 while repairing the road at St James Street and died the next day at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, aged 48. He was buried on 12 October at Buckland, Dover. C7 8.

 Mrs Ashdown, 10 George Street, laid a wreath at her husband's graveside. "In loving memory of my dear husband, from Edie". Others laid included, "To darling "Pop" from Fred and Dorothy" and "To dear Bill" from "Ma"".

"Very dearly loved" "Always in my thoughts" - Edie

Aspinall, W. L
William Lewis Aspinall was born on 21 December 1898. and in 1939 was at 7 New Lane, York, with his wife Minnie Reeve, née Southworth, whom he had married in 1921, and their daughter, Joyce. He was then employed as a sales manager for Hoover, and was also in the auxiliary fire service.

He died at the Salvation Army Canteen (Red Shield Club) in Snargate Street (156?) on 23 September 1944, aged 45. He was then recorded as being from 14 Philip Street, Stockport, Cheshire. At Dover, he had run the Salvation Army hostel for two years, and was a canteen manager. His wife Minnie was buried in the rubble with him; she knew he had died when he stopped speaking to her. She was seriously injured but able to attend his funeral. Their daughter, Joyce, had been playing at a friend's house, so fortunately was saved injury.

Captain Aspinall was buried on 29 September at St James, Dover, 2Y KL. Salvation Army officers bore his coffin. The funeral service was a joint one with Mrs Isabella Bonor Simpson, and Miss Muriel Goldup, who also died at the Red Shield Club.

The first part of the service was held at the Salvation Army's temporary citadel at the old Buckland Wesleyan church. All three coffins were covered with the Salvation Army flag, and borne on one vehicle to the Citadel before a large crowd. There was a long procession to the cemetery, with the cortège being saluted by rescue workers and Dovorians it passed. A Memorial service was held the following Sunday evening.

Captain Aspinall was fondly remembered as being always on the scene of a war-time incident with the tea van. He was noted for his courage and cheerfulness, often being out during shelling to help others. The Mayor of Dover expressed sincere sympathy with his widow and family, and his work for the people of Dover was considered to have been an outstanding example of selflessness and devotion.

Mrs Aspinall, born on 23 January 1899, died in the Dover area in 1975.

with thanks to Janet Oldham for the photograph and additional information

Austen, W. E.
William Ernest Austen.  He was a sign writer, and the husband of A E Austen, of 25 Pencester Road. He was a councillor, elected in 1935, and a former Deputy Mayor to Jimmy Cairns in 1938 and 1939. He was also a sergeant in the Police War Reserve, and a veteran of the Great War, having served in France and been commissioned in the Royal Artillery.

He died at the Conservative Club on 23 March 1942, aged 57, and was buried at Charlton, Dover, 8 2T, his service being conducted by the Corporation Chaplain, Rev G J Browne. There were many mourners, amongst them Mr and Mrs F Neech, his son-in-law and daughter, The Mayor, Alderman J R Carins, and Alderman Gore, and Mr H Saddleton, the Chief Constable. Many Freemasons were present, including Mr P Goldfinch SB from Peace and Harmony Lodge.   By request there were no flowers.

Austin, J.
John Austin. He died on 8 October 1940, aged 63 (77?), at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road.. He was from 6 St. John's Road. He was buried on 11 October at Charlton, Dover. ZC 30.

He was a labourer, and was probably injured when HMT Burke, by the Granville Dock, was struck.

Austin, L. E.
Laura Emily Austin, née Piddock, was  the wife of  Lawrence Henry Austin, born 11 August 1898, an East Kent bus inspector (RH). The couple had married in 1928 in the Elham area. Laura Austin had been born in Folkestone, the daughter of Albert Edward Piddock, a railway signalman, and his wife Kate Elizabeth, née Marshall. They had married on 29 September 1890 at Alkham. At home with them in 1911 were Laura, then 8, born on 13 October 1902, and her brother Walter, 11. There were three other children; Edith Alice, born 1892, Ernest Marshall, 1894, and Dorothy Kate, about 1897.

In 1939 Laura and Lawrence Austin were living at 2 Albert Road, Dover. It was there she died on 5 September 1942 as the result of enemy action. Her children, Patricia (May?), born 1932, Sheila A, born 1931, and John L, born 1935, survived (RH).

She was buried on 9 September at St James, Dover, 15 EV, her coffin draped with the Union Flag, after her body had lain in St Paul's church overnight. There were a number of floral tributes from sections of the East Kent Road Car Company.

Austin, W. J.
William James Austin was born on 12 May 1889 in Dover. In 1891 he was living with his family at 11 Primrose Road, Dover. There then were his father, William John Austin, a bricklayers' labourer, his mother, Jane Sophia, née Wyatt, who had married in 1883, and his sister, Eliza Hannah, born on 2 January 1887 when the family were living at 45 Oswald Road. Mrs Austin died in 1897, and in 1901 William appeared to be boarding as a scholar in the home of George and Marsha Goldfinch at Chalksole Green, Alkham.

In 1910 William married Jane Langstaff, born 1 June 1881, and by 1911 they were boarding at 22 Glenfield Road in the home of Frances Manser and her family. Also there was William George Langstaff, aged 2, Jane's son.

In 1939 they were living at 9 Castle Hill Flats, and William was a dock labourer and ARP warden. Their daughters were with them, Florence, born 17 June 1911, who was seeking work, and Doris, born 11 July 1922, a domestic servant. A third daughter, Edith, born in 1913, had died at the age of two.

The next year, living at 51 High Street, William was injured in the High Street on 13 November. He died at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, aged 51.

He was buried on 16 November at St James , Dover, 17 DR, his coffin covered with the Union Flag. Wreaths laid included, "His broken-hearted Wife" and "His broken-hearted daughters, Floss and Dot".

November 1941

Quickly and quietly was his call, His sudden death surprised us all: Only those who have lost can tell The pain of parting without farewell From his loving Wife and daughters Flossie and Doris Do not ask us if we miss him, There is such a vacant place; Can we e'er forget his footsteps, And his dear familiar face? Sadly missed by Father, Brother, and Sister

Mrs Jane Austin later lived at 31 Monins Road. She died in Dover in 1962.

Aylmer, W.
William Aylmer. He was injured on 11 November 1940 at St Margaret's Bay and died the next day at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, aged 66. He had been working at St Margaret's and was wheeling his bicycle up the main street when a bomb blew some railings across the road, which struck him.

 He was from Rushams, Wingham, Canterbury.

Cameron, E. E.
Edith Emily Cameron. She died on 26 September 1940, aged 62, at her home at 10 Church Street, and was buried on 30 September at St James, Dover, Grave 17 EB. She may have been the owner of a small general shop - newsagent's.

She was the widow of Henry John M Cameron, who died in 1910, just three years after they were married. In 1911 she was living with her parents, William, a nurseryman, and Mary Ann Sparey, at Kelvinside Imperial Road, Gillingham. Mrs Cameron's mother died at 10 Church Street in 1927, and was buried in Gillingham in the grave of her late husband.

Mrs Cameron may have been a member of Dover Spiritualist Church. She was also the "beloved friend" of Jennie Bourner

"A brighter morn than ours"

~Carberry, E. W.
Ernest William Carberry. He was the son of Patrick Carberry, below, and was a Fireman and Driver in the NFS, living at 16½ Finnis Hill. He was injured by being run over by a trailer pump on 19 December 1941 at a sub Fire Station at Finnis's Hill. He was taken to the Casualty Clearing Hospital.  He had sustained a fractured rib, but his condition was good, and he was able to talk to visitors. He explained that he had been between the car and the trailer, had felt a bump, and then the trailer had run over him. Sadly, his condition deteriorated, and he developed pneumonia and peritonitis. His bladder had been perforated, but the surgeon at the inquest stated that it was a small perforation that leaked intermittently, and  that previous tests had not revealed this. Although an operation was attempted, Mr Carberry died under the anaesthetic on 23 December 1941. He was 43

Mr Carberry is buried at St James, Dover, DR 12, and officers and men of the Fire Service formed a guard of honour at the graveside. His comrades also acted as bearers. His brothers, A and F Carberry, and his sisters, Mrs Golden and Mrs Goldsack, were amongst the mourners, as was his widow, who laid a floral tribute, "In loving remembrance of my dearest one, from his broken-hearted wife" 

Mr Carberry and his wife, Alice Elizabeth, née Ward, known to all as "Poppy", married in 1930. They had two children, Patrick Ernest Walter, baptised at St James on 5 April 1931, when the family were living at 12 Chapel Street, and Ernest John, baptised on 11 April 1937, when the family lived at 20 Castle Street. On both occasions Mr. Carberry was described as a "motor driver"

At the beginning of the war, Patrick was evacuated to South Wales. Ernie was, however, too young, and remained at home with his mother. With Mr Carberry on night duty, they were sheltering in the Anderson shelter in the garden when their home at 6 Dour Street was destroyed. The blast from the bomb threw debris against the shelter; by the time they were released the remains of their home had been looted and they were left merely with the clothes they were wearing. Mr Carberry senior, who had refused to leave his bed for "the Hun", as he said, was fatally injured

Less than three months later, Mr Ernest Carberry died, and Mrs Carberry and Ernie went to stay with an aunt in Folkestone. They then moved to an uncle in Gravesend, but were forced to move again, this time to London, when a bomb fell into the back garden without exploding. Finally they moved to another aunt's, in Torquay, where Patrick joined them. Mrs Carberry and her sons eventually found a home in the basement of the hotel where she worked long hours to support them all and to give her children a good upbringing and education

Loved and remembered always - his loving Wife and Boys - 1942
Ever remembered by his Brothers and Sisters -1942

illustrations: top left, Mr and Mrs Carberry
right, Mr Carberry
bottom left - Mrs Carberry and her sisters - l to r, back row: Poppy, girl guest of family, Daisy; front row: Wee, Queenie (who lived at Hill Road, Folkestone, all her married life)  

with thanks to Ernie Carberry
obituary and inquest - Joyce Banks

Carberry, P. J.
Patrick Joseph Carberry. He died at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road on 3 October 1941, aged 83, after having been severely wounded at his home at 6 Dour Street the day before. He is buried at St James, Dover. KU 13

He was the husband of Sarah Ann Carberry (daughter of Thomas Wilson, a blacksmith), whom he had married at St James on 10 March 1885. He was an army pensioner, and had seen service in many campaigns, being a veteran of the old 83rd Foot Regiment and a Corporal of the Royal Irish Rifles.

In 1901 Mr and Mrs Carberry were living at 2 Castle Cottages, Charlton Green, with their children Maude, Albert, Fredrick, Charles, and Ernest. In 1911, with Mr Carberry working for HM Customs, they were living at 34 Widred Road. The children had been joined by Elsie May, then 8, and Gladys Lilian, 6. 

6 Dour Street was the property of the Wilson family, who sadly lost two sons (Claud and John) on active service. Mr Wilson, their father, also lost his life when his home at Sidcup, Kent was hit by a V2

The headstone at St James reads:

Carswell, P. W.
Percy William Carswell. A smallholder, he died from wounds at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, on 20 October 1940, aged 57. He lived at 6 Stanhope Road and had been working in the garden to reinforce the air raid shelter when a shell fell. His brother was badly injured.

He was the son of Mrs Maria Amelia Carswell, of 78 Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, formerly 6 Stanhope Road, and her husband Samuel Herbert Carswell. Mr Carswell had been a sawyer in 1911, and at home then were Herbert, 30, a bricklayers' labourer, Percy, 27, and William, born 1889, both sinkers in a colliery, Ellie, 18, and Edith, 15, dressmakers, and Florence, aged 11.

He was the "dear brother" of his "loving sister" Lily, and Fred

His funeral on 24 October left from 13, The Grove, Dover, and he was buried at Charlton, Dover. YR 2

"Always remembered"

Cashman, D. F.
Donald Frank Cashman died on 22 November 1940, at the age of 19 (CWGC states 28), at his home at 5 Johnson's Terrace, Nonington, Kent. His funeral took place at Nonington church, but sadly his parents and sisters and brothers were unable to attend, owing to illness. Mr G H Beer and Mr R R Beer, his uncles, were present along with members of the local guards and many friends

He was the eldest son of Mr Frank Cashman, who in 1936 was a chargeman at Snowdon colliery, and his wife Dorothy, née Beer. The couple had married in 1919, and had another son, Maurice, born 1925, and two daughters, Bettina, born 1928, and Jean, born 1938. Donald had suffered a bad accident when six years old; playing in a tree he had fallen and so severely damaged his face that his left eye had had to be removed.

Mrs Cashman died in Canterbury Hospital on 16 July 1949, aged 50. The family address was then 57 Burgess Road, Aylesham, whence they had moved after their home was demolished by enemy action in 1940..

November 1941

The call was sudden, the blow severe, To part with one we loved so dear; Only those who have lost can tell The bitter parting without farewell Ever in our thoughts, from his loving Father and Mother, Sisters, and Brother

Probably Donald was the nephew of John Cashman, who is commemorated at Nonington and who died in France serving in The Buffs on 10 October 1915. Frank, his brother and Donald's father, also served in the Buffs, and may have been the Frank Cashman severely wounded in the face by a bayonet.  William Cashman, another brother, served in the 7th Dragoon Guards.

details: Joyce Banks

#Catchpole, C. F.
Cyril Frank ("Teddy") Catchpole was the son of Cyril Edward Catchpole, 1894-1966 and Madeline Constance Caroline née Utting 1895-1969. Cyril Frank was born on 7 December 1914 in Kessingland, Suffolk, and christened on 4 July 1915, also at Kessingland. 

He was a Lighterman of Davis Cottage, Kessingland Beach, Lowestoft, Suffolk. He had been working on the South Goodwins lightship*. He was injured on 11 September 1940 and died at Trinity Wharf, Dover, en route to the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, on that date. He is buried at Kessingland cemetery; his effects were given to Cyril Edward Catchpole, a fishing boat engineer.

Note: we checked with the CWGC the details for Mr Catchpole's injury and death, as they seem inconsistent. This is the reply we received: "The information we hold for Cyril Frank Catchpole is all the details we hold in our records.  This information was supplied to us by the local authority at the time. I am sorry that I cannot help you further in this matter". * Dover Express 5 August 1949. Family information with thanks to Joyce Banks

Champion, W.
William Champion. A mill employee, he was injured at Chitty's Mills (Granville Street) on 13 September 1944 and died at the County Hospital, aged 55. He was buried on 19 September at St James, Dover. 28 CQ

He was the husband of Amelia Louisa Edith Champion of 30 Balfour Road, and father to two sons and two daughters. Mrs Champion was amongst the mourners, with their son, Roy, and their elder daughter, Ena, accompanied by her husband Mr Hopper. Representatives of the directors and the employees of Chitty's Mills also attended, as did Captain Cole, CGM, DSM, Chairman of the Old Contemptibles Association. Mr Champion had served during the Great War, possibly with the 16th Lancers, and may have spent some time in India

Mr Champion had two brothers, Stephen, and Thomas who lost a leg during the Great War

with thanks to Steve Champion
illustration: Chitty's Flour Mill, circa 1921
Memorial

Chapman, C. W., L., and D.
Although there had been much air activity during the previous week, this was, according to contemporary newspaper reports the first aerial attack on Dover for several months. In a bombing raid under a waning full moon seven houses were destroyed. Charles William Chapman, a labourer/carter, and his wife Louisa Chapman died at their home 126 Mayfield Avenue on 22 May 1943. He was 54 and Louisa was 53. One of their daughters, Doris, also died. She was 17. The other daughter was badly injured (RH)

They were buried on 26 May at Charlton, Dover, 3 2S, their coffins draped with the Union flag. Officers of the ambulance services acted as bearers, and present at the graveside were Inspectors A Fenn, Mrs H Webb, Mrs Elliott, and Mrs Marsh. Included amongst the floral tributes was one from the general manager and staff of the Dover Harbour Board 

"In loving memory ... from their loving daughter Mary Chapman and brother and sisters" (60 Tower Street, Dover) - 1944

Chapman, R. W. J.
Ronald Walter John Chapman. He was injured on 25 September 1944, at London Road, Buckland and died the next day at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, aged 17. He was the son of Walter John Chapman and Esther Margaret, formerly Williams, of 60 Tower Street, Tower Hamlets. The couple had married in 1926.

He was buried at St James, Dover,  12 CQ, with members of the NFS acting as bearers. Amongst the mourners were his parents, Mr and Mrs W J Chapman, and his sister and brother-in-law, Mr and Mrs Buss.  Flight Lieut G Blackburn, the commanding officer of the Dover Squadron ATC was also present, with several representatives of Leney's Mineral Water Works. The director and employees of J. Robson's Ltd sent flowers. 

#Clark, D. E.
Daisy Ethelwyn Clark. She died on 22 October 1940, aged 63, at her home at 6 Priory Gate Road. She was buried at St James, Dover, ER 20, which grave was purchased on 24 April 1940, and amongst the floral tributes were those from "Jo, Doll, Mog, and Grace (the girls)" (her daughters), and "brother Albert" and "sister Eunice", along with one from the Officers and Staff of the Naval Store department. Her husband, daughters and sons-in-law, sister, and niece were amongst the mourners

Her husband Ernest died on 24 October 1965, and was buried with his wife. He was 90, and was a retired soldier, and a veteran of the South African Campaign. He had been in the siege of Ladysmith and decorated by Queen Victoria. His coffin was covered with the Union Flag

discovered by the original research of Joyce Banks

Mrs Clark died from a cerebral haemorrhage; probably this was attributed by her family to the stress of bombardment on Dover, hence the epitaph "killed by enemy action". Mrs Keyton died under similar circumstances in 1917.

Cleak, A. J.
Albert John Cleak. He lived at 16 Trevanion Street, and died on his way to shelter at Trevanion Cave on 1 November 1940, aged 71. His son William John Cleak was with him

He was born in Bristol, but had married in 1890 in Wales to Mary Anne Rowley. He had lived in Kent more than half his life, and in the 1911 census was living at 1 New Road, Upper Eythorne, with his wife and seven children. he was then working as a journeyman blacksmith in a colliery. Their first child, Lilian, was born in Wales, but the others were born in Dover excepting the 9-month baby, Doris Irene, who had been born at Eythorne. Mr Cleak is buried at Eythorne.

Gone but not forgotten Florrie, Humphrey, and Children October 1941

Florence, whose name is in the cutting below, was born in 1914. She married Humphrey Hall in 1934.

Cock, F. E. and F. E.
Frederick Ethelbert Birch Cock and Florence Ethel Cock, née Adams, died at their home at 8 Randolph Road, Buckland, on 12 June 1941 after an airmine was dropped from a Heinkel (RH). Florence was 57, and was the daughter of Mrs. Adams, of 12 Coleman Road, Belvedere. Frederick was 53, employed in the Borough Engineer's Department and was in the No 6 ARP Rescue Service. Their two sons, George and Horace, survived; one account says they were blown out into the street.

Their granddaughter, Doris Smith, living in the next house, was also killed, and was interred in the same grave at Buckland, Dover. C9 8. Several of the family, including Doris' sister Daphne, and mother, Ella, daughter of the Cocks, were unable to attend as they were still in hospital 

In memoriam 1942 - Always remembered by their sons and daughters, Sonnie, Kath, Bert, Horace, Sis, and Georgie and daughters-in-law, Kath, Alice, and Nancy.

Frederick had served in the Great War as 91290, a Royal Engineer in the Inland Water Transport. He enlisted on 11 December 1915, and had previously been working as a labourer. The couple had married on 20 November 1909, and by enlistment had five children; Frederick Arthur, born 28 November 1909, Christopher James, born 5 December 1912,  Kathleen Beatrice, born 27 December 1913, Albert Edward, born 7 March 1915, Ella Margaret, born 8 April 1916.

They had had another daughter, Beatrice Mary, born in March1911; sadly she died soon after birth.  At that time Frederick was working as a gardener, and the family were living at 35 Granville Street.

Cockcraft, E.
Ethel Cockcraft (also Cockcroft). She died at 19 De Burgh Hill on 26 September 1944, aged 72. She was the youngest daughter of the late Rear-Admiral and Mrs Cockcraft. Her address was 24 Templar Street

She was buried on 29 September at St James, Dover. 13 CQ

Collor, D. E.
Delza Ella Collor was born in 1920 in Dover, the eldest child of of John Collor and his wife Edith, formerly Lawrence, who had married in 1919.

In 1935 she received an honours prize at the Dover Deanery Branch of the Church of England Temperance Society. Miss Collor was a member of the Christchurch group. She also successfully studied shorthand and commercial English at the Technical College in Dover.

On 19 March 1944, aged 23, she died 31 Church Road, Dover, after a long illness. She was buried on 22 March at St Mary's, Dover, 12 HH, with the first part of her funeral being at Christchurch   

She was remembered by Mr and Mrs Beardsall, and by Joey, in Italy. Mourners at her funeral included Mr and Mrs J B Collor, her parents, of whom she was their "beloved daughter", the Misses Edna and Eileen Collor, her sisters, Mr. W H Hudsmith (possibly the poet), Miss G Richards, Miss Nickoll, and Mr S Clout. Several other people had been present at the church beforehand

The headstone reads: "In sweetest loving memory of our dear daughter Delza Collor, Died 19 March 1944, age 23 years. If love could have saved her she would not have died"

On the left kerbstone is inscribed; "Also of John Benjamin, father of the above, died 16 June 1960. Aged 77 years".

Mr and Mrs Collor, then living at 57 Clarendon Street, lost twin daughters in 1929, soon after they were born. Jean Muriel died on 10 March, and Joan Rubie died on 12 March. They were buried at St James.

Cook, W. E. and E. J.
William Ernest Cook and his son Ernest James Cook lived at the Dover Patrol Hostel and died there on 11th September 1940.  It was 10 days before their bodies could be recovered from the rubble 

William was 59 and Ernest was 28. In 1911 William had been married for less than a year to Florence Beatrice Dyer; the ceremony performed on 13 June 1910. He was working as a hotel porter of baggage, and the couple were living at 9 Balfour Road, Dover. William enlisted on 22 January 1916 to become 191291 of the Royal Engineers, (Inland Water Transport Corps), with the duties of a lighterman. At that time there were three children; Hilda, born 2 March 1911, Ernest, born 12 June 1916, and Horace, born 21 April 1916. He was demobbed as a sergeant to the National Seamen's Home.

William had been the Steward of the Hostel for 18 years when he died, and was well-known to many seamen, especially having worked from time to time on the cross channel ferries. Ernest was a news printer.

At their funeral on 24th September at Charlton, Dover, 3F 27, The Committee of the Hostel laid a wreath, "With profound regret but sincere remembrance of one who never ceased to serve the Sailor". Florence's wreath read, "In affectionate and loving remembrance of my dear Husband and devoted Son".

"God's greatest gift is Remembrance"

Cook, W. H.
William Henry Cook. He died on 1 September 1944, aged 67, at 5 Military Hill and was a retired General Labourer. He was buried on 5 September at St. Mary's, Dover, 28 ZE, and ARP workers acted as bearers. His widow, their sons, C. W. Cook and P. Cook, and their daughter, Mrs Crouch, were amongst the mourners.

Cooper, A. R.
Alfred Reginald Cooper. He died at the High Street on 13 November 1940, aged 16. He was an Assistant Mechanic, the "dearly loved son" of Mr A L Cooper, and his wife, née Kirk, of 28 Farthingloe Road

He was buried on 18 November at Charlton, Dover, 1V 27, and floral tributes included, "To our loved one, from his sorrowing Mum, Dad, and brother Alan"

November 1941

Not one hour do we forget him, in our hearts he is always near, we, who loved him, sadly miss him From his loving Mum, Dad, and Alan In loving memory of my dear nephew  From Aunt Alice, Uncle John, and family

Court, A. F.
Alan Francis Court was 5 when he died on 22 November 1940 at his home, 6 Johnson's Terrace, Nonington, Kent. He was the youngest son of Francis Harold George and Lilian Alice Court

Court, A. J.
Alfred James Court was in 1891 just one year old, born at Capel-le-Ferne to James Court, a waggoner on a farm, and his wife Esther. They were living at 31 Capel Sole Cottages, and already had three children; Annie, 6, Ernest, 4, and Lillian, 2. By 1901 Mrs Court had been widowed; she was living at Alkham and working as a laundress and dressmaker. Annie was a housemaid and Ernest was working as a yard boy on a farm. The family had been joined by a new son, Harry, then 9, and also there was a nurse child, Edith Taylor, aged 6. 

Alfred Court joined up for twelve years service on 12 October 1910 as 3973 in the Rifle Brigade. He apparently ended up as a bombadier in the RGA, with a home address of Mount Pleasant, West Hougham. He was  discharged on 9 May 1919, his address then being Black Swan Cottages, West Hougham.  He had served in France and had suffered gun shot wounds to his leg and an injury to his eye. His character reference was very good, having been considered as an exemplary, sober, steady, hardworking NCO.

He was 50 years old when he died through enemy action on 2 October 1941 at his home at 122 Limekiln Street. He was buried at Alkham. His brother and sister-in-law were amongst the mourners, and floral tributes were sent from the Dover working Men's Club and Institute and his friends at the Valiant Sailor, as well as officers and members of the White Lion Slate Club.

information Joyce Banks

#Coveney, T. D.
Thomas Daniel Coveney was buried on 7 January 1944 at St James, Dover, 29 PE. Aged 41 and a Motor Body Builder, he had died at Trevanion House after a long illness as a result of enemy action (on 3 January 1941?). The first part of his funeral service was held at St Mary's, with his body being taken from 20 Trevanion Street. Amongst the floral tributes were one from Mrs E Coveney and one from the Trevanion Street Caves

Thomas was the son of Emily Coveney and her late husband Alfred. He was christened on 14 February 1904, at St James, when the family were living at 52 Clarence Street. Two of his brothers, Edward and Alec Coveney, died in the Great War.

In memoriam, 1945:
In ever loving memory of Thomas Daniel Coveney, who passed away January 3 1944, from his loving Mother, Brothers, and Sisters  

with thanks to Joyce Banks

Davis, S. and E. L.
Sidney Davis and his wife Elsie Louisa Davis died at their home at 38 Stanhope Road on 21 October 1941. He was 60 and she was 58.

They were buried on 25 October at St Mary's, Dover, 2 NK. Their daughter Elfreda Denne, with Ernest Dunford, brother of Mrs Davis, and Mrs L A Daniels, sister, and Mr Edwin Dodd, brother-in-law attended, along with many personal friends and representatives of the Office of Works at Ashford and Amalgamated Society of Woodworkers

Decent, G. H.
George Henry Decent was the son of John Decent and Maria, née Davis, who had married in 1883 in Dover. In 1901 Mr Decent was 51 and the publican at the Three Compasses on Finnis Hill. He had run the pub since 1884, and remained the landlord until 1904.

Living at home in 1901 were several children; John, 15, George, 12, William, 9, Edith, 7, Frederick, 3, and Lucy, three months. All the family had been born in Dover

By 1911 Mr Decent had become a boatman, and the family were living at 3 Finnis Square. Son John was working at the docks, while George had already begun his railway career by working as an engine cleaner for the South Eastern Railway. William was a post messenger.

In June 1939 Mr Decent was a bearer for the coffin of retired colleague Harry Williams, who had died on 9th, aged 76. He was buried at Charlton. R Easton and A Lund were amongst the many railway mourners.

George Decent  died at Tower Hill, Dover,  on 25 October 1940, aged 52. According to the ARP warden, Mr. Decent had just come off shift as a driver from the railway, and had enjoyed a pint in the King William on his way home with colleague Ernest Silk. As he was leaving the public house, the blast hit them both. Lying in the road, but not knowing how severely he was injured, Mr. Decent's last words were a wry "bl**dy Germans", before he lost consciousness and then died

He was the "beloved husband" of Emily Maria Decent of 4 Lowther Road, Tower Hamlets, and father of Emily, born 1917  Grace, born 1922, and Rosie, born 1928. He had married his wife, daughter of James Newing, a carter, at St James on 1 May 1915. At the time of their marriage, their address was 7 Russell Place, Dover. Emily Decent was the sister of Maud Williams, wife of Thomas Norris Williams, and the sister of Martha Abbott (remembered at the top of this page).

George's mother was at the time of her son's death living at 62 Balfour Road; she died in 1944 in Canterbury, aged 82. She had been a widow over thirty years, as John Decent had died at the age of 65 in 1915. George was also a brother-in-law to Violet, widow of Joshua Blagrove

George was buried on 30 October at Charlton, Dover, 1C 29, with his coffin borne by Locomotive Drivers. Many flowers were laid, including wreaths from his wife "To one of the best, from his broken-hearted Wife, Em" and his children, "Dearest Dad, from his daughter and son-in-law, Em and Arthur" and "To dearest Daddy, Gracie and Rosie", and one from his little granddaughter, "To my darling Grandad, from Baby Shirley". Harmony Lodge of the ROAB also laid a wreath and a number of flowers were laid from Railway groups 

The inscription on the right kerbstone of his grave reads:
In loving memory of my dear husband, George Henry Decent, killed by enemy action 25 October 1940, aged 52 years
The inscription on the left kerbstone reads:
Also of Emily Maria Decent, his loving wife, who died 24 April 1967, aged 74 years Re-united

I often sit and think of you, dear, And think of how you died, To think you could not say goodbye Before you closed your eyes. Do not ask me if I miss him, Life for me is not the same; All the world would be like heaven Just to have him back again from his loving wife Em He had a nature you could not help loving, A heart as true as gold, And to us, who knew and loved him, His memory will never grow cold Loved always by his daughter and son-in-law Em and Arthur, and granddaughter Shirley

We are thinking of your words, dear Dad, And what you said is true: That we should always miss you, And from our hearts we do Goodnight Dad, from his loving daughters Rosie and Grace In the midst of life we are in death From Mother, Edie, and Fred Rest in peace Lucy and Alf In loving memory (brother) from Jack, Kit, and Ray

October 1941

grave and kerbstone transcription by Joyce Banks

Illustrations: (above) part of an application for membership of the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen,  filled in by Mr Decent on 18 September 1935  (left) Mr. Decent's name, recorded in the Benevolent Fund book of the Society in 1929. This book was kept by Maggie S-K's grandfather, Alexander Webb. Below Mr Decent's name is an entry for F Decent, believed to be his brother Frederick, and further down are entries for Isaac (Ike) Easton and Robert (Bob) Easton, Maggie S-K's great-grandfather and grandfather, respectively

Deverson, L. D.
Leonard Douglas Deverson was born in Dover, the son of Arthur Deverson, a horse slaughterman in 1911, and his wife, Rose Annie. The family were living in 5 Chapel Lane, Dover, in 1911, and at home were Percy Reginald, 15, an apprentice french polisher, Cyril Leslie, 13, Mabel Winifred, 13, and Leonard, then 8. He was the only member of the family born in Dover; the remainder had all been born in Canterbury.

Leonard married Doris Gertrude Knox in Dover in 1922, and they had two daughters, Rita, born in 1923, and Brenda, born in 1928. Leonard worked as a hairdresser, and during the war became an Air Raid Warden. He died on 13 November 1940, aged 38, at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, after being injured at the High Street. According to the St Mary's book of Remembrance he had been on duty as an Air Raid Warden; it is reported that he had been sheltering a woman from a bomb, and a splinter went completely through his steel helmet

He was the "beloved husband" of Doris Gertrude Deverson, of 23 High Street. 

The first part of his funeral service was held at 10 Wood Street, and he was buried on 15 November at Charlton, Dover, 8 AG , his coffin covered with the Union Flag. Floral tributes including, "To dearest Len, from his broken-hearted wife, Doris" and "To dear Dad, from his loving daughters, Rita and Brenda"

 

November 1941

I often sit and think of you, dear, And think of how you died, To think you could not say goodbye Before you closed your eyes. Do not ask me if I miss him, Life for me is not the same; All the world would be like heaven Just to have him back again From his loving wife, Doris Time has changed in many ways, But one thing changes never: The memory of those happy days When we were all together From his loving daughters, Rita and Brenda Away from this world of sorrow to a place of eternal rest Mother and Winnie

A clock dedicated in his memory is in Dover Museum

Dewell, G. W.
George William Dewell. He died on H.M. Trawler Burke by Granville Dock, Dover Harbour, on 8 October 1940, aged 37 (or 33). He lived at 5 Maison Dieu Place and was the husband of Sylvia Dewell, née Morgan, whom he had married just a few months before his death.

Born in Folkestone, he was the "beloved son" of Mr George Henry and Mrs Annie Elizabeth Dewell, of Gardeners Cottage, Sandwich Road, Eythorne, and in 1911 of 60 Dudley Road, East Cliff, Folkestone, when Mr Dewell was working as a gardener for a hotel. Mr Dewell died on 23 September 1948.

George William's funeral took place on 18 October at Eythorne churchyard, with an address of 36 St John's Road, Elvington

"Until the day break"

 

You have taken the last long journey, In God's beautiful ship called "Rest", Away from this world of sorrow To the home of eternal rest For ever in our thoughts, Mum and Dad Without farewell, he fell asleep, With only memories left to keep; Sleep on, dear brother, God knows best, On earth there's strife; in heaven, rest From Syd and Muriel

Dive, E. H. and F. S.
Edward Henry Dive was born in Westfield, Sussex, the son of a farm bailiff, Stanton Diver, and his wife Mary. In 1891 he was eight years old and living with his parents and two sisters,  Bertha, 10, and Clara, 7, at a cottage in Church Lane, Rye. In 1911 he was a journeyman breadmaker, boarding at 62 Oxenden Street, Dover, and ten years later was working as a carman and boarding at 4 Maison Dieu Place.

In 1915 he married Annie Louise West, and the couple had several children, amongst them probably Stanton, born 1916, Annie, born 1921, Albert, born 1924, John, born 1925, Frederick, born 1927, and Peter, born 1930.

On 12 June 1941 a parachute mine fell at Randolph Road, near their home. Mr and Mrs Dive were both injured. They moved to 25 Bartholomew Street, but there just three months later, on 17 September 1941, Mr Dive, aged 58, working as a carter, and his son Frederick, aged 14, were both killed by bombing. They were found close together. Mrs Dive was seriously injured.

Edward and Frederick were buried on 22 September at Charlton, Dover. 25 1

"Out of a world of turmoil, into a world of peace." From loving wife Nance and Mother - 1942
"No burdens yonder. Home at last." - 1942
"Loved and remembered always" from loving children, and "Suffer little children to come unto me"  from loving brothers and sisters, Stant, Nancy, Ted, Peter, Elsie, Jack - 1943

Mrs Annie Dive was sheltering in the Union Road trenches shelter when nine people were killed by a bomb on Good Friday, 3 April 1942.  Nearly blind, her courage was said to be "wonderful"* Their youngest son, Peter, helped with the rescue work on this occasion.

* from later article by Bob Hollingsbee

Dixon, E.
Ella Dixon. She died at Market Square on 23 March 1942, aged 17. She was the daughter of Mrs F Dixon, of Clements Cottage, East Langdon, and of the late Frederick William(?) Dixon.  She is buried at East Langdon. The words on her gravestone read,

"In ever loving memory of one whose word and smile so many remember. Ella Dixon ("Bob"). died by enemy action 23rd March 1942. Aged 17 years. "Be not afraid of them that kill the body"."

Ella went to school in East Langdon before the war and was said to have been a very bright girl. She and a lad alternated every term in being top of the school. There was a cup awarded if one was top of the school for three terms running -  neither of them ever received the cup as the results were always so close.

When Ella was killed she was waiting for a bus to take her home to Langdon, and had sheltered in the doorway of the office of the East Kent Road Car Co. The bus station was in the Market Square, but in the later part of the war it was relocated to Pencester Gardens because the Square seemed to be a target

The lad who was equal top at school said, "She was a lovely girl, who I am sure would have made something of her life if she had been spared"

In Memoriam 1943

Bert, Ella's brother, was Albert Charles Dixon, G/4913. He served in The Buffs, 2nd battalion, D company, as a Private, and was killed in action near Ypres on 25/24 May 1915. He was 19, and is commemorated on the Menin Gate. His parents were Frederick Walter Dixon and his wife Annie Susannah, née Hopper, from East Langdon.  1916 - Never forgotten by his sorrowing Mum, Dad, Sisters, and Brothers. "Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends"

Doherty, T.
Thomas Doherty. He died on 13 September 1944, aged 52, at Granville Street. He was buried on 20 September at St James, Dover. 29 CQ

He lived at 1 Enfield Road, Gravesend and was the husband of Agnes M Doherty, formerly Goldsack. The couple had three children - Jack, born 1916, Robert, born 1922, and Jean, 1924. In 1945 Jean placed an in memoriam announcement in the paper, "In ever loving memory of my dear Dad ... from his loving daughter, Jean"

Dowdell, H.
Herbert Dowdell. He died at Folkestone Road on 12 September 1944, aged 30. He was a fireman in the NFS.  He was the husband of Jessie Catherine Dowdell, of 8 Kenilworth Road, Cadoxton, Barry, Glamorgan, and the son of Dora Phillipa Dowdell, of 53 Kenilworth Road (not Dover), and of the late Robert Dowdell

Dutnall, W.
William Dutnall was the son of William and Susanna Dutnall. He died on 30 September 1940, aged 66, at Barwick's Yard. He had been a Shop Foreman for Barwick's for 25 years. Prior to that, in 1911, he had been a carpenter.  

He was the husband of Florence Rose Dutnall, née Welch, of Malmains Cottage, Church Alkham, whom he had married in 1898, and had a son, Arthur Cyril, and a daughter, Laura Winifed, both born at Swingfield.

He was buried at Alkham, with workmates acting as pall bearers 

Dyer, M. F.
Mary Frances Dyer. She was injured at her home at 37 Military Road on 2 October 1941 and died at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, on  4 October 1941, aged 60. She was the "dearly loved" wife of George Dyer

She was buried on 9 October at St James, Dover. 16 EW. Her coffin was covered with the Union Flag, and the first part of her service was held at St Paul's Church. There were many floral tributes, amongst which were:

"To my beloved wife, from her broken-hearted husband, George"
"To my loving mother, from her broken-hearted daughter Evelyn and son-in -law Jack"
"To my darling mother from her broken-hearted daughter Doris and little granddaughter Shirley"
"from her broken-hearted sister, Maggie"

There were also tributes from the Kent Mine Workers, Tilmanstone branch, from the caves, from the "King William IV", from "The Crypt", and her "old pals" and "dear pal" amongst the flowers

Dyer, S. J.
Sydney James Dyer in 1911 was living at 8 River Street, River, and working as a general labourer for the Admiralty works. He had married in 1907 Emily Eliza Wise, who was an ironer for the River Laundry. The couple had, in 1911, one son, Sidney.

He died at his home at 18 Randolph Road on 12 June 1941, aged 58 years and 11 months. Mrs Dyer mourned her "dearly beloved husband", She, along with two of their sons and a daughter, had gone to Yorkshire to seek refuge from the constant bombardment of Dover, and perhaps work in the coalmines for the sons. Mr Dyer refused to go, and was therefore alone in the house when the mine fell 

He was a Gasworks employee, and was buried at Buckland, Dover, C10 16, with workmates acting as bearers for his Union Flag-draped coffin

Three of his children predeceased him: Rene, who died on 18 October 1933, Leslie, 20 March 1930, and Hilda, 15 May 1910. He also had sons, Sid and George, and married children, Ted, Cyril, and Elsie.  Elsie was married to Walter Nadin, landlord of The Crown, which once stood at the bottom of Military Hill, and then The Falcon, once on the corner of Bridge Street, Dover. Cyril was stationed in Dover during the war, and worked up on the cliff tops as part of the anti-aircraft corps   

His parents lived in Dover, and he had a sister, Hilda, living at Wyboston. His brother Fred had died on 28 February 1915. Sydney Dyer died just six weeks before his new little granddaughter, Jean, was born

with thanks to Jean Sampson