John Pickard
- Family History
- Military History
- Extra Information
- Photographs
He was born about 1887, the youngest child of William Thomas and Ellen Pickard who had four children. In 1891 they were living in Stoney Street, Sutton in Ashfield, with their children William H. (13), Harriet Ann (10) Arthur (8) and John (4). By 1911 William and Ellen were living at 1 Portland Street, Sutton in Ashfield, with only Harriet and Arthur at home on the night of the census. John married Florence Mary nee Marshall in 1915 and they lived at Douglas Road, Sutton-in-Ashfield; it does not seem that there were any children of the marriage. His mother died aged 69 on 9 July 1926 and his father the following year on 21 May 1927 aged 76. His only sister, Harriett Ann Elliott (nee Pickard), died on 7 February 1967 aged 86.
Sapper John Pickard worked for the Cable Section, Royal Engineers which was responsible for the laying and maintaining telephone and telegraph cables. Had been awarded the Albert Medal for Lifesaving. He died in hospital in Boulogne of cerebral spinal meningitis and was buried in Wimereux Communal Cemetery (grave ref II.B.13A). He qualified for the British War Medal and Victory Medal.
Notts Free Press: 29/12/1916: Died of Meningitis. Family grave, Sutton in Ashfield cemetery: 'To the sacred memory of Ellen, the dearly beloved wife of William Thomas Pickard, died July 9th 1926 aged 69 years. Absent from the body, present with the Lord. Also her beloved husband, William Thomas Pickard, died May 21st 1927 aged 76 years. They have fought the good fight, and have kept the faith. Reunited. Also in memory of John, the dearly beloved son of the above, died in hospital, Boulogne, interred Wimereux Cemetery 1916.’ Kerbstone: ‘Also Harriett Ann Elliott, died 7th Feby. 1967, aged 86 years.’ Soldiers' Effects: His widow, Florence, was his sole legatee.
