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THE  DOVER WAR MEMORIAL  PROJECT

 

war memorial at dusk, photographed by Michelle Cooper
 

 

World War II

 

CIVILIANS WHO DIED IN DOVER
# =not named in book of Remembrance

Surnames A to D

A

Abbott, A. and M. A.
Alfred Abbot, a postman, died on 3 April 1942, age 55, at his home at 8 Priory Gate Road. His wife, Martha Mary Abbot, was injured there and died, aged 56, at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road. She was the daughter of Mrs. Meyers, of 170 Lewisham Road.

The funeral left from 28 Douglas Road on 8th April, and they were interred in the same grave at Charlton, 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.  

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

Abbott, V. G
Victor Gordon Abbot. He was killed in an ambulance at Limekiln Street on 25 October 1940, aged 28. He was a member of the F. A. P. He was the husband of Violet L. L. Abbott, nee Wyatt, of 3 Council House Street, and the son of W. S. and S. Abbott, of 2 Old Folkestone Road. They were unable to attend his funeral owing to evacuation through illness, but many of his remaining family were at his graveside at Charlton, 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" 

in memoriam, courtesy Dover Express 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

In memoriam, courtesy Dover Express
In memoriam, courtesy Dover Express
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",
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

Amos, L. E.
headstone, by Joyce Banks Lena Ellen Amos. She died at 1 Townwall Passage on 11 September 1940, aged 20. She was the wife of Albert Henry Amos, First Class Stoker, Royal Navy, 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. She also survived, protected by the body of her mother. 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 funeral of Mrs Amos (23 ER) and Miss Terry was held at St James, with the cortege leaving 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, 11th September 1940. Aged 20 Years."

In memoriam, courtesy Dover Express In fondest memory of my darling Leana Ellen Amos, killed by enemy action, 11th September 1940. Gone, but not forgotten. From her loving husband, Bert (HMS Cathay)

photo and transcription, with thanks to Joyce Banks

Ashbee, A.V.
Albert Victor Ashbee. He was the licensee of the Ancient Druids (RH) and died at St James Street on 20 October 1940, aged 57. He was the "dear husband" of Martha Ann Ashbee of 11 Stembrook, and the son of the late George Ashbee

He was buried at St Mary's, with the funeral cortege leaving from 144 Clarendon Street.
in memoriam announcement, courtesy Dover Express

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. He was injured by bomb blast on 6 October 1940 while repairing the road at St James Street and died at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, aged 48. He was buried at Buckland cemetery.

He was the husband of Edith Ashdown, 10 George Street, who, at his graveside, laid a wreath, ""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. He died at the Salvation Army Canteen (Red Shield Club) in Snargate Street on 23 September 1944, aged 45. He was from 14 Philip Street, Stockport, Cheshire. He had run the Salvation Army hostel for two years, and was a canteen manager. His wife was seriously injured.

He was buried on 29th September at St James, 2Y KL

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 cemetery, 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, at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road.. He was from 6 St. John's Road. He was buried at Charlton

headstone, by Simon ChambersAustin, L. E.
Laura Emily Austin. She died at her home at 2 Albert Road on 5 September 1942, aged 40. She was the wife of  Lawrence Henry Austin, and East Kent bus inspector (RH). Her four children, Patricia, May, Sheila, and John survived (RH)

She was buried on 9th September at St James, 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. A labourer, he lived at 51 High Street, and was injured in the High Street on 13 November 1940. He died at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, aged 51. He was the husband of Jane Austin, later of 31 Monins Road

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

Aylmer, W.
William Aylmer. He was injured on 11 November 1940 at St Margaret's Bay and died at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, aged 66. He was from Rushams, Wingham, Canterbury.

 

B

Bailey, R.
Richard Bailey. He died on 12 February 1941 at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, aged 45, after having been injured on 8 February 1941.

The son of the late Mr and Mrs Stephen Bailey, he was an ARP Ambulance Driver, and, after a service at St Martin's, was borne to his grave at St James by fellow workers.  Amongst the mourners were his widow, Mrs Ada Beatrice Bailey, from 55 Church Road, his daughter, Jean, his brother, Jack, and Miss Bailey, Miss S Bailey, and Mrs W Pay, his sisters.

Amongst the floral tributes laid were, "To my darling, with all my heart and love, Ada" and "To my darling dad, with love and sweet memories, from his Jean".

details Joyce Banks

gravestone of Lily Ball, by Simon ChambersBall, L. E.
Lily Elizabeth Ball. She died by the Salvation Army Citadel on 13 November 1940, aged 16. She was the daughter of Mrs. Ball, of 2 Victoria Cottages, and the late H G Ball, jnr.

She was buried at Charlton on 18th November, 3K 11, and the cortege left from the home of her aunt, Mrs Ives, at 317 London Road.  Her coffin was covered with the Union Flag. One of the floral tributes bore the message "With love, from Mummy and sisters Norah, Betty, and Margery"

"Re-united with Daddy"

 

Reg, Winnie, Doll, Bill

Banks, C. W.
Charles William Banks. He lived at 11 Buckland Avenue, and was killed at the Conservative Club on 23 March 1943, aged 54. He was the husband of the late Ethel Rose Banks and son of William and Esther Banks, of 1 Avenue Road. He was buried at Charlton from Avenue Road on 28th March 1942, 31 2S.

Barker, H. J.
Helen Jane Barker, nee Burnes. She died on 12 August 1940 in an explosion at St Radigunds Road, aged 38. She had been for several years a Nursing Sister of the St John's A.B and was a Nursing Auxiliary attached to a First Aid Post.  She was killed on her way to her duties.

The funeral was held on 19th August at St Andrew's, C8 12, where the flag of the St John Ambulance Brigade was flown at half mast during the service. Her coffin was draped with the flag of the Borough, and the uniform hat and gloves from St John's laid thereon. Nursing Sisters and Auxiliaries formed a guard at the graveside, while First Aid members were pall bearers.

She was the wife of Bertie Dennis Barker of 9 Oswald Road. He was an ambulance driver (chauffeur) who attended the incident (RH). Helen was the daughter of the Mr. and Mrs. W. Barnes, of Bryn Maur, Highland Road, Chichester, Sussex.

Benbow, C. T.
Charles Tytler Benbow. He died at the Lagoon Cave, High Street, on 1 September 1944, aged 53. He was from 11 Lancaster Place.

He was the son of the late Lt.-Col. J. E and Mabel Christina Benbow, of 27 East Cliff.

#Benn, W.   
William Benn. He was four years and ten months old when he died on 30th October 1941 from carbon monoxide poisoning while sleeping in a private cave shelter. 

He was the son of lorry driver Mr, and Mrs, Reginald James Benn, from 2 New Cottages, Finnis Hill, Dover. They had moved here after being bombed out of their home several weeks before (RH). Adjoining number 4 was a cave some 45 feet long, and Mr and Mrs Benn and their four children, and Mr and Mrs Dunigan and their son Kenneth, used it each night as shelter from air raids. There was a wooden partition across the cave, which  making sleeping accommodation around 7 feet wide by 7 feet high by 18 feet long, accessed by a door in the partition. The children had been put to bed at 8.15, after the stove had been warming the cave for an hour. A coal fire in a bucket was placed just outside the door, for extra warmth. This was found inside the cave by PC Hogben, who attended the incident with the ambulance at 11.40, and who said that the atmosphere was "stifling" when he first entered. 

William, his brothers Bertram, three years six months, Francis, two years six months, and his sister Sylvia, 15 months, and Kenneth, three years, were checked at 9pm by Mrs Benn, who thought they were all asleep, but when she and Mrs Dunnigan went to bed at around 11pm, they discovered one child seemingly "dreaming", and that another, Sylvia, had been sick and was stiff.  The adults took the children into the house, while Mr Dunnigan sent for a fireman. Fireman Howell found William on a table, and attempted first aid before the ambulance arrived to take him to the casualty hospital. Artificial respiration continued in the ambulance and at the hospital after William arrived at 11.50, with additional oxygen, but the doctor eventually stated that William had been dead for two to three hours. A blood test showed that he had inhaled fumes in high concentration.

The coroner at the inquest returned a verdict of misadventureextended his very deep sympathy to the parents.

#Bennett, W. H.  
William Henry Bennett. He was in the N. F. S. He died on 10 January 1944, aged 52 at his home at Glenside, Green Lane, Temple Ewell, after having been injured on 2 June 1943. He was the husband of Maggie Bennett.

Berry, R.
Ruth Berry. She died at that Salvation Army Canteen, Snargate Street on 23 September 1944, aged 23. She was a Mobile Canteen Driver; of 22 Windsor Road, Ellacombe, Torquay, Devon, and the daughter of the late William and Annie Berry, of Chapel Cottage, Bridford, Devon.

Bexhall, F.
Frederick Bexhall  (Bexhill on CWGC). He was a nightwatchman and died at the Military hospital on 1 October 1941, aged 62. He lived at 8 Beaufoy Terrace.

He was buried at Buckland, B 906 (old?) in a coffin draped with the Union Flag, and his wife and brother, Jack, were amongst the mourners. Mr Kempson, representing Mr J L Eve of the Construction Company, Dover, was present, and one of the floral tributes was from Mr Eve and workmates. Children of no 1 and no 12 Beaufoy Terrace also sent floral tributes.

Botten, B. M.
Benjamin Maynard. He was injured by bomb blast while repairing the road at St James Street and died at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road on 7 October 1940, aged 61.

He was the "dearly loved husband" husband of Alice Louise Botten, of 150 Heathfield Avenue, and was buried at St James, in the grave of his daughter, Alice May Botten, who had died four years before.

Wreaths laid at the graveside included:

"His loving Wife"
"Grandpop's little Darling, Ann"

wedding day, courtesy Mrs S MilesBuddle, D. E.
Doris Elizabeth Buddle. She died at London Road on 25 September 1944, aged 26. She lived at 23 (48) George Street and was the wife of Cpl. Frederick Arthur Buddle, R.E. She left a small daughter, Shirley, just five years old.

She was buried at St James on 30th September, 4 CQ

Left: Mrs Buddle on her wedding day, with her news husband, Frederick. They were married on 4th September 1937, at St Andrews, Buckland.

with thanks to Mrs Shirley Miles

Burns, D. P.
Dennis Patrick. He died at Folkestone Road on 10 December 1942, aged 33. He was a taxi driver and was a Company Sergeant Major in the Home Guard (RH). His wife was Daisy Evelyn Burns, of Priory, Sandwich Road, Eythorne.

Burvil, E. M.
Edith Mary Burvil(le). She died at the N.A.A.F.I. Canteen on 10 February 1943, aged 39. She was in the N.A.A.F.I. She was the widow of Roland Burvil and the daughter of Ernest Scamp, of 53 Bridge Street, Folkestone .

headstone by Joyce BanksBushell, B. C.
Betty Charlotte Bushell. She died at the Salvation Army Canteen, Snargate Street on 23 September 1944, aged 20. She was a member of the F.A.P. She was the daughter of Mrs. E. D. Bushell, of 4 Beaconsfield Road

The headstone is much eroded, and all that could be read was "Betty Charlotte Bushell. Killed by Enemy Action"

photo and transcription with thanks to Joyce Banks

Bussey, A. G.
Albert George Bussey. He died at the County Hospital on 13 September 1944, aged 68,  after being injured at the Church Entrance. He lived at 133 Folkestone Road, and was the church verger. He was buried at Charlton, 11 2S

Buswell, A.
Adaline Buswell. She died at Folkestone Road, where she had sheltered in a doorway, on 25 September 1944, aged 64. She was the wife of Herbert N. Buswell, of 16 Eaton Road

 

C

Cameron, E. E.
Edith Emily Cameron. She died on 26 September 1940, aged 62, at her home at 10 Church Street, and is buried at St James.

She was the widow of G. Cameron, and 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 a Fireman and Driver in the N.F.S, 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.

He was the husband of Alice Elizabeth Carberry, whom he married in 1930, and, we believe, the son of Patrick Carberry, below.  He and his wife had at least two children, Patrick Ernest Walter, baptised at St James on 5th April 1931, when the family were living at 12 Chapel Street, and Ernest John, baptised on 11th April 1937, when the family lived at 20 Castle Street. On both occasions Mr Carberry was described as a "motor driver".

He is buried at St James, 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." 

information - Joyce Banks

Carberry, P. J.
headstone by Joyce BanksPatrick 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, KU 13.

He was the husband of Sarah Ann Carberry (daughter of Thomas Wilson, a blacksmith), whom he had married at St James on 10th 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.

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 was hit by a V2. We believe Mr Carberry may have married for the second time in 1928, and it was Mrs A E Carberry who was known as "Aunty Pop" to the family.

The headstone at St James reads:

In Loving Memory
of
Sarah Ann
The dearly beloved wife of
Patrick Joseph Carberry
Died 11th December 1924, aged 58 years.
"They miss her most who loved her best"

Also of the above
Patrick J. Carberry
Died 3rd October 1941, aged 83 years

Among the mourners at his funeral were Mrs Goldsack, his daughter, and his sons, Mr A, Mr F, and Mr E Carberry. One of the floral tributes was from Mr and Mrs Wilson.

photo and transcription and further details: Joyce Banks

Carswell, P. W.
Percy William Carswell. He died at the Casualty Hospital, Union Road, on 20 October 1940, aged 57. He lived at 6 Stanhope Road and was the son of Mrs. M. A. Carswell, of 78 Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, formerly 6 Stanhope Road.

His funeral left from 13, The Grove, Dover, and he is buried at Charlton

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. 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 son of Mr and Mrs F Cashman.


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

funeral details: Joyce Banks

Catchpole, C. F.
Cyril Frank Catchpole. He was a Lighterman of Davis Cottage, Kessingland Beach, Lowestoft, Suffolk. He was injured there on 11 September 1940 and died en route to Casualty Hospital, Union Road.

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 54. He was buried at St James on 19th September, 28 CQ

He was the husband of Amelia Louisa Edith Champion of 30 Balfour Road.

Chapman, C. W., L., and D.
Charles William Chapman, a labourer, 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 at Charlton on 26th May, 3 2S.

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 and Esther Margaret Chapman, of 60 Tower Street, Tower Hamlets.

Clark, D. E.
Daisy Ethelwyn Clark. She died on 22nd October 1940, aged 63, at her home at 6 headstone, by Joyce BanksPriory Gate Road. She was buried at St James, E R 20, which was purchased on 24th April 1940, and amongst the floral tributes were those from "Jo, Doll, Mog, and Grace (the girls)", 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 24th 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.

The headstone reads:

In Happy Memory of
Daisy Ethelwyn Clark
Killed By Enemy Action
22nd October 1940. Aged 63.
"None knew thee but to love thee
Nor name thee but for praise."

Also of
Edward Ernest Clark,
Husband of the above. Died 24th October, 1965.
In his 91st year.

announcement 1940, courtesy Dover Express
1940

discovered by the original research of Joyce Banks 

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

He was originally from Wales, but had lived in Kent more than half his life. He is buried at Eythorne.
In memoriam, courtesy Dover Express

Gone but not forgotten

Florrie, Humphrey, and Children

October 1941

Cock, F. E. and F. E.
Frederick Ethelbert Cock and Florence Ethel Cock 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 A.R.P. Rescue Service. Their two sons, George and Harold, survived.

Their granddaughter, Doris Smith, living in the next house, was also killed, and was interred in the same grave at Buckland 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

Cockcroft, E.
Ethel Cockcroft. She died at 19 De Burgh Hill on 26 September 1944, aged 72. She was a widow, the daughter of the late Rear-Admiral Cockcroft. Her address was 24 Templar Street.

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

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 11 September 1940.  It was 10 days before their bodies could be recovered from the rubble. 

William was 59 and Ernest was 28. William had been the Steward of the Hostel for 18 years, and was well-known to many seamen. Ernest was a news printer. Florence B. Cook was William's wife and Ernest's mother.  At their funeral at Charlton Cemetery, 3 F 27, on 24th September, she laid a wreath, "In affectionate and loving remembrance of my dear Husband and devoted Son".

The Committee of the Hostel also laid a wreath, "With profound regret but sincere remembrance of one who never ceased to serve the Sailor".

"God's greatest gift is Remembrance"

Cook, W. H.
William Henry Cook. He died on 1 September 1944, aged 67, at 5 Military Hill.

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, nee Kirk, of 28 Farthingloe Road.

He was buried at Charlton on 18th November, 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. J.
Alfred James Court. He was 50 years old when he died 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.

funeral information Joyce Banks

 

D

Dalley
She died at 47 Salisbury Road on 26 September 1944 (RH)

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 are buried at St Mary's. 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.

application for membership, from collection of M S-KDecent, G. H.
George Henry Decent. He died at Tower Hill on 25 October 1940, aged 52. He was the "beloved husband" of Emily Maria Decent, of 4 Lowther Road, Tower Hamlets and the son of Maria Decent, of 62 Balfour Road, and of the late John Decent, a boatman. He had married his wife, daughter of James Newing, a carter, at St James on 1st May 1915. At the time of their marriage, their address was 7 Russell Place, Dover. 

According to the ARP warden, Mr Decent had just come off shift 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.

Mr Decent was buried at Charlton on 30th October, 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. 

In memoriam, courtesy Dover Express 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

Illustrations: (above) part of an application for membership of the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen,  filled in by Mr Decent on 18th 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. He was a hairdresser and 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. 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 at Charlton, 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".
In Memoriam, courtesy Dover Express
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

Dewell, G. W.
George William Dewell. He died on HM Trawler at Dover Harbour on 8 October 1940, aged 37 (or 33). He lived at 5 Maison Dieu Place and was the husband of Sylvia Dewell. He was the "beloved son" son of Mr. and Mrs. Dewell, of Gardners Cottage, Sandwich Road, Eythorne

"Until the day break"
in memoriam announcement, courtesy Dover Express 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, aged 58, a carter, and his son Frederick Stephen Dive, aged 14, died at 25 Bartholomew Street on 17 September 1941. Edward's wife and Frederick's mother was A. L. Dive, and she was injured in the attack. Mrs Dive was in the Union Road trenches shelter when nine people were killed by bomb on Good Friday, 3rd April 1942.  Nearly blind, her courage was aid to be "wonderful"*

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

"Out of a world of turmoil, into a world of peace." From loving wife Nance and Mother - 1942
"No burdens yonder. Home at last." - 1942S

* from later article by Bob Hollingsbee

Dixon, E.
1943, courtesy Dover ExpressElla 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.

She 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. 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.

A correspondent says, "She was a lovely girl, who I am sure would have made something of her life if she had been spared."

Doherty, T.
Thomas Doherty. He died on 13 September 1944, aged 52, at Granville Street. He lived at 1 Enfield Road, Gravesend and was the husband of A. M. Doherty.

He was buried at St James on 20th September, 29 CQ,

Dowdell, H.
Herbert Dowdell. He died at Folkestone Road on 12 September 1944, aged 30. He was a fireman in the N.F.S.  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, and of the late Robert Dowdell

Durman, J.
Jesse Durman. Living at 43 Heathfield Avenue, he was a Constable in the Police War Reserve, having been previously a Special Constable. He had been a chef at a Dover Hotel, and later a fish and chip monger, of the "Silver Grill" in the High Street, Dover. He had also opened another fish and chip shop in Priory Street.

He came on duty at the Police Station on 23 Mary 1942, complaining of feeling unwell. He was found collapsed in the lavatory, and when removed to the hospital was found to be dead, owing to heart trouble. He was buried at Charlton, with PCs Crush and Harman, and War Reserves Dunnigan, Pascall, Minter, and Brook as bearers of his coffin. 

He was the husband of J M S Durman, who was in Wales with their two children at the time of his death. .   

Note: The Silver Grill former premises is pictured here; it's the shop with the yellow doors next to the Salvation Army 
details Joyce Banks

Dutnall, W.
William 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. 

He was the husband of Florence Rose Dutnall, of Malmains Cottage, Church Alkham, and had a son and daughter. 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 at St James on 9th October, 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. He died at his home at 18 Randolph Road on 12 June 1941, aged 58 years and 11 months. He was the "dearly beloved husband" of Emily Eliza Dyer. He was a Gasworks employee, and was buried at Buckland (C10-16), with workmates acting as bearers for his Union Flag-draped coffin.

"Out of this turmoil into everlasting peace."
"Resting where no shadows fall."
"Peace be thine with God; not goodbye, just goodnight."

"Many a lonely heartache,
Often a silent tear,
But always beautiful memories
Of him we love so dear."

Three of his children predeceased him: Rene, who died on 18th October 1933, Leslie, 20th March 1930, and Hilda, 15th May 1910. He also had sons, Sid and George, and married children, Ted, Cyril, and Elsie.  

His parents lived in Dover, and he had a sister, Hilda, living at Wyboston. His brother Fred had died on 28th February 1915.


Copyright 2006/7/8 © Marilyn Stephenson-Knight. All Rights Reserved