John Graham Timothy

Private John Graham Timothy – Welsh Regiment, 15^th Battalion

Early Life

John Graham Timothy was born in 1899 in Oystermouth, the son of John Timothy and Harriet Delve, who were married in 1893.

1901 Census

The 1901 Census records the family living at 23 Park Street, Oystermouth. John (34) was employed as a Labourer at the Dock Wharf, while his wife Harriet (32) cared for their young family. Their children were Gertrude R. (6), Kathleen V. (4), John G. (2), and George R. (1).

1911 Census

By the 1911 Census, the family had moved to 3 Gloster Place, Mumbles. John (44) continued to work as a Dock Labourer, and Harriet (42) was at home with their children. Their household included Gertrude (16), Kathleen (14), John G. (12), George R. (11), Rose (9), Wilfred (7), Edith S. (5), and Alfred G. (1). The older children were attending school, reflecting the family’s close connection to the local community.

Military Service

During the First World War, John Graham Timothy enlisted and served as a Private with the Welsh Regiment, 15th Battalion.

The 15^th (Service) Battalion, also known as the Carmarthenshire Battalion, was raised in October 1914 as part of Kitchener’s New Army and attached to the 38th (Welsh) Division. The battalion fought with distinction on the Western Front, particularly during the Battle of the Somme (1916) at Mametz Wood, one of the most significant engagements for Welsh soldiers during the war. Later operations included service at Ypres (1917) and during the final Allied advance of 1918.

As a young man from Oystermouth, John would have undergone training in South Wales before joining his unit in France or Belgium. His experience would have been shaped by the demanding conditions of trench warfare, long marches, and the constant threat of bombardment and disease.

Death

John Graham Timothy
Oystermouth Cemetery
credit - findagrave

Private John Graham Timothy died on 21^st March 1921, aged 22, from the effects of illness and hardship brought on by his wartime service. Like many returning servicemen, he suffered lingering health complications from his time at the front — a common legacy among veterans of the Great War.

Burial

Following his death, John was laid to rest at Oystermouth Cemetery, near his family home. His grave remains one of several there belonging to local men who served and died as a result of the First World War.

Legacy

John Graham Timothy was among the many young men from Oystermouth whose lives were shaped — and ultimately shortened — by the Great War. Though he died after the Armistice, his sacrifice stands equal to those who fell overseas. His grave at Oystermouth Cemetery serves as a lasting reminder of his service and of a generation whose courage and endurance left an enduring mark on the community.