George Arthur Griffiths was the son of George and Maria Griffiths, of 3 Burnt Wood. From the 1911 census father George was a coal miner. George Arthur had a younger sister, Doris. (The 1911 census tells us that George and Maria had been married 28 years and she had given birth to 9 children, two of whom had died.)From a grave at St. Matthews, a brother James Richard died in 1910 and another sister Mary Esther who married Edward Beaven and died in 1913.
George Arthur’s death was announced in the County Herald, November 15, 1918:
The news of the death in action of Private George A Griffiths, son of Mr. and Mrs. Griffiths, of 3 Burntwood, occasioned much grief in this locality. It appears from letters received that this young soldier was killed instantly, whilst facing the enemy. The deceased was much respected in Buckley. He was only twenty years of age, and had seen about six months active service.
George Arthur is remembered on the family grave at st. Matthew’s.
In loving memory of
James Richard
Son of
George and Maria Griffiths
Burntwood
Who died January 25th 1910
Aged 21 years
He brought down my strength in my journey
And shortened my days
Also Mary Esther
Beloved wife of
Edwin Beavan
And sister of the above
Who died February 21st 1913
Aged 22 Years
He giveth his beloved sleep
Also George Arthur
Son of the above
Who was killed in action in France
October 17th 1918
Aged 20 years