Source: Leicestershire War Memorials Project.
Coalville Times article - Friday November 17th, 1916

CORPORAL JOSEPH LOWE

Grandson of Mr J. T. Ward, of North Street, Hugglescote, and son of Mr B. Lowe of King’s Norton, formerly of Leicester Road, Whitwick. Killed in action on October 26th by a shell bursting on his dug-out. He was 20 years of age, and was in the Royal Fusiliers.

The parents of Corporal Lowe have received a letter from 2nd Lieut. Chas. F. Jackson, of the Royal Fusiliers in which he states “It is my sad duty to have to write to you about your son. As the officer of his platoon, I was near to him when the shell came which took him from us. He was sitting in his dug-out, which was blown in by the explosion, and your son was killed on October 26th. Regarding his end, he was in no suffering, and passed quietly away. He was buried just behind the line. We feel that we have lost in Corporal Lowe, one who was a credit to his company. He was a priceless fellow at his work and his conduct commanded the respect of both officers and men. Such men we are proud of, and hope that those bereaved will find comfort in the knowledge that he fought so well under such trying circumstances. To me the death of your son comes as a personal loss, which I feel very keenly, and my brother officers join me in sending to you and yours our deepest sympathy.”

The letter enclosed was found in his pocket. This was as follows:

“In the event of my death, please forward the following to Mrs B. Lowe, 16, Baldwin Road, King’s Norton:- My dearest Ma, Pa, Emily and Leslie – Again, I am called upon as a true soldier of dear England to advance and attack the enemy. I pray that Almighty God will protect me and save me from all harm. Up to the present, He has been very kind, and He alone knows how little I deserve His protection. Dear folk at home, my heart burns with the pride of a soldier. I am trusting in our Heavenly Father to help me play the man in this next engagement. I hope that someday we may all meet in Heaven. Best love to all, from your loving son, Joe.”

Research undertaken and submitted (including photograph from Coalville Times) by Andy Murby 17/11/2017