William was born on the 1 November 1874. He was one of six children born to Ephraim and Phoebe Bailey who lived in Pagham. His father was an agricultural labourer as were all of the male children. William’s mother Phoebe died in March 1885, aged 49 when William was 10 years old. William’s father moved the family to lodge with William’s sister during the 1890s, possibly to help with William in view of the loss of his mother, and most likely to help with the financial situation. William became an agricultural labourer following in the footsteps of his father and brothers.
William married Alice Ruff in 1903, and moved to Gordon Terrace Felpham. They had four children in 11 years and William, who obviously wanted to try and improve his work situation, served with the Army Cyclist Corps. He then secured a position with Bognor Urban Council, where he worked for 14 years, until war was declared. He then re-enlisted at Bognor and joined the 13th Battalion, The Royal Sussex Regiment.
The 13th battalion were in action at Martinsart Wood. The conditions were unimaginable, the battlefield a quagmire. It was here on the 3rd of November 1916 that he fell. He, as many others, had answered the call. Never to return. He left his wife Alice and four children. He is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in France, and listed on the Tangmere and Felpham war memorials.
Census
Medals
Marriage Cerificate
Description of 'The Raid'
Felpham Roll of Honour
Memorials
