Hubert James John Harries

 Reverend Hubert James John Harries

St. Paul’s, Sketty

Hubert James John Harries
St. Paul's Church, Sketty

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission honours all service personnel; however, they died. Among them is the Reverend Hubert James John Harries, who served as a Chaplain with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve and died in October 1944.

Early Life and Family

James George Harries and Elizabeth Thomas
marriage certificate
St. James church

Born in 1907, Hubert was the son of James George Harries and Elizabeth Thomas, who married in 1905 at St. James’ Church.

1911 Census

In the 1911 Census, the family were living at 21 Brynsifi Terrace. James, then 37, was a Publishers’ District Manager, while Elizabeth was 29. Hubert was 4 years old, and his aunt Edith Margaret Thomas was also part of the household.

1921 Census

By the 1921 Census, they had moved to 20 Penmaen Terrace. James was now Branch Manager for The Waverley Book Co. Ltd. Hubert, aged 14, had a younger sister, Freda May, aged 7. Their aunt Martha Jane Thomas was also living with them, employed as a bookkeeper for the same company.

Education and Calling

1939 Register

Hubert studied at Exeter College, Oxford, where he gained his Master of Arts before being ordained. By 1939, he was recorded as a Clerk in Holy Orders, living in Builth Wells.

Wartime Service

Commissioned as an RAF Chaplain in 1940, Hubert married Josephine Turnbull Owen the following year. He served in North Africa before being returned to Britain on medical grounds and posted to RAF Wymeswold, Lincolnshire.

Tragic Death

Herald of Wales

Herald of Wales

On 18^th October 1944, after leading communion, Hubert tragically took his own life. He was brought home to Swansea and buried at St. Paul’s, Sketty. His death was widely reported in both local and national newspapers, the Herald of Wales noting simply: “The death is deeply regretted by a wide circle of friends.”

Reflection

Though his end was a sorrowful one, Hubert Harries is remembered for his service as both priest and Chaplain. His name is not only inscribed in St. Paul’s churchyard, but also on the Exeter College war memorial, where he is honoured among fellow alumni who gave their lives in the service of their country. His story reminds us that the impact of war extended beyond the battlefield, touching even those whose calling was to bring comfort and faith.