Roy Williams – Royal Navy

 Leading Supply Assistant Roy Williams – Royal Navy

Roy Williams was born in 1908 in Swansea, the son of Thomas Richard Williams and Mary Matilda Williams, whose marriage anchored a family long associated with the commercial and social life of the Uplands and Mumbles districts.

Family Life in 1911 – Brynymor Crescent, Swansea

1911 Census

The 1911 Census records the Williams family living at 12 Brynymor Crescent, Swansea. Thomas Richard, aged 38 and born in Llantrisant, was employed as an Insurance Superintendent, while his wife Mary Matilda, aged 34 and born in Newbridge, undertook household duties. Their children were William Ivor, 11, attending school; Violet Mary, 4; and Roy, then 3 years old. The household reflects a stable, respectable family rooted in professional work and early education.

Education in 1921 – Queen’s College, Taunton

1921 Census

By the 1921 Census, Roy, aged 13, was recorded as a pupil at Queen’s College Boarding School for Boys, Taunton, Somerset. His placement at a well‑regarded boarding school suggests both academic promise and a family able to support a higher level of education.

1939 Register

Life in 1939 – “Conway”, Sketty

The 1939 Register shows Roy living with his parents at “Conway”, Sketty, Swansea. Roy was employed as a Shop Assistant (Gentleman’s Outfitter), while his father, Thomas R., also worked as a Gentleman’s Outfitter, and his mother Mary Matilda continued to manage the household. This period marks Roy’s entry into the family business, a partnership that would later define his civilian life.

Marriage

In 1940, Roy married Violet Greenslade, establishing a household closely connected to the commercial life of the Uplands, where Violet herself was engaged in business.

Wartime Service – Royal Navy

Roy Williams served with the Royal Navy, holding the rank of Leading Supply Assistant. His role placed him within the essential logistical arm of naval operations, responsible for provisioning, stores, and the smooth functioning of shipboard supply systems—duties critical to the wartime fleet.

Roy Williams
Oystermouth Cemetery, Mumbles
credit - findagrave

Death and Community Tribute

Roy Williams died on 26 February 1945, after a long period of declining health following his wartime service. He was buried at Oystermouth Cemetery, where many of Swansea’s servicemen rest.

The South Wales Evening Post reported his funeral in terms that reflected both affection and respect:

“The funeral of Mr. Roy Williams, of Rotherslade Road, Mumbles, was held at Oystermouth Cemetery, marking the passing of a man well known throughout the Uplands district… A former Royal Navy serviceman, Mr. Williams had returned to civilian life some years earlier in declining health… Before his illness, Roy had worked alongside his father, Mr. T. R. Williams, in their business at Glanmor Terrace… His wife, formerly Miss Violet Greenslade, was also engaged in business in the Uplands… Popular among neighbours and friends, Roy Williams had once been associated with the Uplands Rugby Club…”

His funeral drew those who knew him through sport, business, and wartime service, each paying tribute to a man whose life had touched many corners of Swansea.