R E Foxall (1891 – 1915)

Robert Edward Foxall was baptised at St Leonard’s on 24th June, 1891, the son of Robert Bourne Foxall and his wife, Caroline Jane. The family lived in Friars Street.

Robert senior worked as a carpet loom fitter, but by 1911 he was trading on his own account as a general dealer in coal, scrap iron etc. In the same year, Robert junior was working in the family business as fitter, salesman, coaldealer.

Robert served in the 2nd Battalion King’s Shropshire Light Infantry. He was killed in action at Ypres on 8th May, 1915 when the Germans attacked Frezenberg Ridge. He is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

Private Foxall, 6813, was awarded the Victory and British Medals and the 15 Star. His death was reported in the Bridgnorth Journal on 22nd and 29th May, 1915.

BRIDGNORTH MAN KILLED
[Bridgnorth Journal, Saturday 22nd May, 1915]
News has been received to the effect that 6813 Private Robert Edward Foxall, K.S.L.I., of 18, Railway Street, has been killed. He leaves a widow and one child. He is a son of Robt. Foxall of Friars Street.

DIED
[Bridgnorth Journal, Saturday 29th May, 1915]
FOXALL. – On Sunday, May 9th, killed in action near Yrpes (officially confirmed), aged 24 years. Private Robert Edward Foxall, eldest son of R. B. Foxall, Friars Street.