George Willacy Isaac was the son of Alfred and Margaret Jane Isaac of Liverpool. Alfred Isaac was Head Master of St. Clement’s Boys School for 25 years and died in 1898. Margaret Jane died in 1927 aged 82. George Willacy was baptised 3rd May, 1883 at St. Clément’s Liverpool. In 1911 the family was living at 32 Fern Grove: Margaret Jane 66, Margaret 35, Gertrude 29, George Willacy 28, Ethel 25, Ellen Mary 24. George Willacy was listed as an elementary school teacher.
George Willacy Isaac married Isabel Catherall 1st August 1914 at Bistre. Isabel was one of 8 children born to John and Esther Catherall (nee Newton), Cambrian Villa (others were Martha, Joseph Newton, Mary, Maggie, Elizabeth, Ada Gwenne, Annie/Frances). In 1911, Ada, Isabel and Annie Frances were all school teachers; Maggie was listed as a school teacher in the 1901 census. George and Isabel had no children. Isabel’s address on George’s pension and medal records was 59 Bagot St., Liverpool (which is between Toxteth Park Cemetery and Wavertree).Isabel did not remarry. In 1937 she was living at The School House, Astley Abbots, Shropshire with unmarried sisters Margaret listed as Elementary Schoolmistress and Annie. Isabel died in Shropshire in 1971.
From his Service Record, George Willacy originally enlisted in the Territorial Force 28 April 1908 in Liverpool, and we was called up at the onset of the War. He had a medical examination 18 February 1915 at Blackpool and he embarked from Southampton, 8 September 1915. He was promoted Staff Sergeant, 8 September 1915, Acting Sergeant Major, 15 February 1916, Temp Sergeant Major for duration of war, 3 December 1917, in the 63rd Field Ambulance. He joined the Cyclists Base Depot at Rouen June 1918. He died from bronchio pneumonia at No. 21 Casualty Clearing Station, France, 22 November 1918, 11 days after the Armistice having served in France over three years.
George Willacy’s death was reported in the County Herald, December 18, 1918
Mrs. Isaac, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Catherall, Cambrian Villa, has received news that her husband, Sergeant Major G. W. Isaac, has died in France from the effects of influenza. The deceased soldier was called up on the 4th of August 1914.
From “Buckley Board 100 Not Out” – a history of the Board School Buckley by headmaster Leslie Rowlands. “Mrs. Isaac has received the terrible news of her husband’s death on active service in France. Her attendance at school is not expected for some time”
George is recorded at a memorial site for the RAMC, and for the 63rd Field Ambulance, as well as on the family grave in Liverpool (Toxteth Park) cemetery
In loving memory of Alfred Henry, eldest son of Alfred and Margaret J. ISAAC, suddenly called to rest 3rd July 1897, aged 20 years. Be ye also ready.
Also of the above Alfred ISAAC, for 25 years. Head Master of St. Clement’s Boys School, who entered into rest 31st January 1898, aged 49 years. In Thy presence is fulness of joy; at Thy right / hand there are pleasures for evermore. Psalm 16.11.
Also George Willacy, Sgt Major 63rd Fd Amb. R.A.M.C. aged 35, youngest son of the above, who died at Caudry, France, 22nd Nov. 1918, after 4½ years’ service. Until the day break, and the shadows flee away. Also Margaret Jane, wife of the above Alfred ISAAC, who died 11th April 1927, aged 82 years.
Also Gertrude, second daughter of Alfred and Margaret Jane ISAAC, who died 7th November 1929, aged 48 years
