KIRKUP, John George Chainey

Carisbrooke Cemetery, Isle of Wight UKCredit: Gary Newman

Civilian War Dead
National Role of Honour

Although not classed as a 'War Grave', John is still recorded by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission as 'Civilian War Dead' as he died as a result of enemy action during World War 2.

John (George) was born on the 31st of December 1882 in Liverpool to George Edward & Eliza Cheyney (nee COLE) KIRKUP.

John was killed during a German air raid on Newport on the 4th of May 1942, & is commemorated by the Commission on the National Roll of Honour in St. George's Chapel, Westminster Abbey in London.

John was a well known teacher of music & ex-church organist. He happened to be in the kitchen of his house at 123 Medina Avenue where he lived alone, the nearest part of the house to a bomb, & he was apparently instantly killed when the building collapsed.

CWGC Casualty Record

Cemetary

Carisbrooke Cemetery

Location

Carisbrooke Cemetery, often referred to as 'Mount Joy' Cemetery is located on Whitcombe Road, Carisbrooke PO30 1DW.  The cemetery was established in 1858 on land purchased by the Carisbrooke & Gatcombe Burial Board, because St. Mary's Churchyard in Carisbrooke was becoming full. The cemetery is now managed by the Bereavement Services Department of the Isle of Wight Council.
The cemetery contains 32 War Graves from the 1st & 2nd World Wars.