Regiment: East Surreys, 8th Battalion, 18th Division
Service No: 2230
Date & place of birth: October-December1895, Petworth
Date & place of death: 28 January 1916 aged (20), Northern France
Family background
Joseph Simpson was born and raised in Petworth, the son of Joseph and Clara Simpson of 411 Kilsham Lane. Joseph Senior is listed in the 1911 census as coal carman. Joseph was still living at home in 1911, working as a grocer’s shop assistant. Clara was probably married before as they have children listed as Willie and Mabel Matthews, as well as a second son Frederick.
Military service
Joseph enlisted in Kingston-upon-Thames, hence his entry to the East Surrey regiment; we do not know why he was there at the time.
Death and commemoration
Joseph died of wounds on 28 January 1916. His battalion was involved at the time in various battles on the Western Front including Albert, Thiepval Ridge and Ancre. He is buried in St Pierre Cemetery, Amiens.