Ystalyfera Fallen

This is the memorial page for Ieuan Williams, native of Ystalyfera, killed during the Second World War in a flying accident.

The information on Ieuan Williams comes principally from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, from the Labour Voice newspaper, and the Parish Burial Register (courtesy of the Swansea Archives).

From the South Wales Voice newspaper of 7th November 1942 comes the report of the death of Ieuan Heddwyn Williams:-
GODRE'RGRAIG SERGEANT PILOT KILLED The sad news was received on Saturday by Mr and Mrs Benjamin Williams of 133, Graig Road, Godre'rgraig, that their only son Sergeant-Pilot Ieuan Williams RAF VR, had been killed in an accident. Deep sympathy is extended to the parents and family in their great sorrow. Sergeant-Pilot Williams, who was 21, was the first Godre'rgraig boy to gain his wings. He received his training in Georgia USA. He was educated at Pontardawe Technical School and prior to joining the RAF, was employed at Tarreni Colliery. The funeral took place on Thursday and a report will appear in our next issue.

From the South Wales Voice newspaper of 14th November 1942 comes the report of the funeral of Ieuan Heddwyn Williams:-

GODRE'RGRAIG SEMI-MILITARY FUNERAL
The semi military funeral of Sergeant-Pilot Ieuan Heddwyn Williams RAF V R, 21 years old and only son of Mr and Mrs Benjamin Williams of 133 Graig Road, Godre'rgraig, whose death in an accident was reported on in our last issue, took place on Thursday, burial being at Godre'rgraig Cemetery. List of mourners: Messrs Ben Williams, father; William Williams grandfather; Councillor Evan T Lewis, William David Lewis, Elfed Lewis, David Williams, Owen Williams, Gwilym Williams uncles; .... At the house: Mrs Harriet Ann Williams, mother; Miss Nancy May Williams, sister; Mrs Evan Lewis, Mrs William Williams, grandmothers........................

Below is the gravestone for Ieuan Heddwyn Williams, together with the memorial stone for his parents:-

The father of Ieuan Williams died only eleven years after his son, aged only 54. The South Wales Voice newspaper for 25th December 1953 reported:-

MR BEN WILLIAMS

We regret to report the untimely death of Mr Ben Williams of 133 Graig Road Godre'rgraig, at the age of 54. Mr Williams was the son of a much respected couple in Ystalyfera, Mr and Mrs William Williams, faithful members of the Gurnos Chapel.

Mr Ben Williams was employed by the Glamorgan County Council as a road foreman and was held in high esteem by all who came in contact with him. He was of a very happy disposition and suffered a prolonged illness without ever complaining.

His funeral will take place on Saturday next, leaving the home for the Godre'rgraig Cemetery at 2 o'clock.

Mr and Mrs Williams suffered a great loss in the death of their only son, Sergeant Ieuan Heddwyn Williams, who was killed on active service during the last war.