John Butler – Royal Artillery

Gunner John Butler – Royal Artillery

Early Life

Frederick George Butler and Margaret Winifred Frost marriage certificate Christ Church, Swansea

Born in 1903 at Swansea, John Butler was the son of Frederick George Butler and Margaret Winifred Frost, who married in 1895 at Christ Church, Swansea. His childhood unfolded within a large working family rooted in the trades and crafts of early twentieth‑century Swansea.

Family Life (1911 Census)

1911 Census

By the 1911 Census, the Butler family were living at 7 Marlborough Road, Swansea. Frederick George, aged 38, worked as a Decorator, while his Shropshire‑born wife Margaret Winifred, aged 39, undertook household duties. Their children present were Frank P. (15), a Tailor; Frederick C. (14), a Shoemaker; George (12); John (8); Marjorie (4)—all attending school—and Dorothy (1), the youngest of the household.

Early Military Career (1921 Census)

1921 Census

By the 1921 Census, John Butler, aged 18, had already enlisted with the Royal Air Force. He was recorded as an Aircraftman 2nd Class, serving as an Aircrafthand Under Training (Wireless Operator), based at Abbotts Worthy, near Winchester, Hampshire. This early enlistment marked the beginning of a long association with military service.

Military Service

John Butler later served as a Gunner with the Royal Artillery, continuing his wartime duties within one of the Army’s principal branches during the Second World War.

John Butler
Morriston Cemetery
credit - findagrave

Death and Burial

John died on 13 August 1944 and was laid to rest at Morriston Cemetery, where his grave stands among the wartime burials of the district.