Ernest Smith
- Family History
- Military History
- Extra Information
- Photographs
Ernest was born on 17th April 1893 in South Leverton and was the son of Ada Smith. When Ernest was very young his lost his father and by the 1901 census his mother a widow aged 31 years is living with her father William 82 years, also widowed and a retired blacksmith, at his address in Church Street, South Leverton. She has with her at this time her two sons Harry 9 years and Ernest 7 years. In 1909 his mother Ada remarries William Needham another South Leverton resident and by the 1911 census they are still living in South Leverton. William Needham is a grocer and general dealer aged 45 years and Ada is now 41 years of age, Ernest now 18 years is noted as a stepson to William Needham, however Harry is not residing at the address. In 1911 Ernest is serving his apprenticeship as a plumber to Mr G.W. Morley of Grove Street, Retford, and by the time of his death his mother is living at 3 Century Road, Retford, along with his widow Blanche.
Ernest joined the Colours in December 1917 and served with the Royal Marine Light Infantry. He was killed in action on 27th September 1918 and is buried in Moeuvres Communal Cemetery Extension, Nord, France grave reference I D 22.
Pte Ernest Smith Retford Times 20th December 1918 A Leverton Hero " Previously missing, now reported killed." Such was the sad message received by Mrs E Smith concerning her husband Pte Ernest Smith, who was killed in action on Sept 27th. Pte Smith who was a native of South Leverton was the youngest son of Mrs W Needham, now of 3 Century Road, Retford. He joined the colours about a year ago and went to France with his regiment the R.M.L.I. in July last. He was 25 years of age, and leaves a widow and one son. His only brother is still serving in France. Before joining the Colours he had served his apprenticeship and worked as journeyman with Mr G.W. Morley, plumber, Grove Street, Retford. A memorial service was held at the Wesleyan Chapel, South Leverton on Sunday evening last.
