George Curry
Brenda McMahon submitted the following :-
George was the youngest son born to his parents James and Isabella (nee Marshall) Curry at Gateshead in 1896. He had 2 brothers Walter and Thomas.
George’s father, James died in 1900, so at the age of 4 years. The 1901 census shows his mother, Isabella, working as a butcher in her own business at 23 Trinity Street, Gateshead. Her eldest son, Walter was helping as a butcher’s apprentice.
By 1911 his mother continued in the family business with Walter. Her son Thomas was a baker/confectioner whilst George was working as an errand boy in a cement manufacturing company. His mother had a very successful business and when she died in 1927 she was a wealthy woman leaving an estate of £2544.19s 6d.
In November 1915 aged 19 George enlisted into the army. Although he was only 5’ 4” and slimly built he was declared fit for service. He was a Presbyterian.
During May 1916 George was promoted to acting corporal. He transferred to France 16 August 1916 but was wounded shortly afterwards (7 October). He received gunshot wounds to the forearm but rejoined his battalion on the 15th October. Some incident occurred as by November his records state 'L/Cpl Curry has permission to revert to private but such reversion does not allow him to escape court martial'. The records do not make clear the circumstances surrounding his decision.
He was wounded in action on the 8th May 1916 with gunshot wounds to the head and back. He died the following day at the Casualty Clearing Station no.7 aged 21.
Later in 1917 his family was sent his personal belongings which included disc, letters, a pipe, 6 religious books, metal cigarette case, notebook, pair of spectacles in case, National Registration card & a French dictionary.
His mother added the following words to his headstone :- For me to live is Christ. To die is gain
George James Curry is remembered at Gateshead on G39.004
