446569 Corporal 28th Battalion Canadian Infantry
William Stone was born in Bridgwater in January 1888. He was the son of Henry John Stone and Louisa Barrow. In 1901 the family lived in North Willow Cottages next to the Hope Inn. Henry worked as a gas house labourer and John had three older siblings. By 1901 the family had moved next door to Hope Cottages and Henry was now working in the brickyards. However, Henry died in 1906 and his mother Louisa would follow in 1909. In 1911 William lived in 19 Southgate Avenue, just off the Taunton Road, he was 22 and was working as a shop assistant. He was living with his older and younger sisters and his younger brother. He seems to have emigrated to Canada sometime after this, before enlisting in the army and returning to Europe.
William was killed on 15 September 1916. He was 28 years old. The Bridgwater Mercury reported on 1 November 1916 'Canadian Record Office reports that Corporal William John Stone, 28,Canadian Contingent, posted as missing since 15 September now believed killed. He was the eldest son of late Mr and Mrs Henry Stone, Hope Inn, Taunton Road, Bridgwater'.
He is buried in the Serre Road Cemetery, plot XXIII. B. 14.His name was added to the memorial of his parents in the Wembdon Road Cemetery memorial 584. The inscription reads: In Loving Memory of Henry John Stone who died January 2nd 1906 aged 49 years. Gone but not forgotten. Also of Louisa wife of the above who died September 9th 1909 aged 50 years. Peace Perfect Peace. Also of William John son of the above who was killed in France September 15th 1916 aged 28 years. Also of Nelly Stone daughter of the above who died September 29th 1959 aged 79 years.
