Source: Michael Doyle Their Name Liveth For Evermore: The Great War Roll of Honour for Leicestershire and Rutland.
He was the son of John Henry Challands an ironstone quarry labourer, born 1869 in Sproxton, Leics., and his wife Sarah Kate, born 1868 in Old Dalby, Leics. John Edwin was born in 1897 in Old Dalby, Leics., his siblings were, Maria E., born 1892 and George H., born 1894, both his siblings were born in Old Dalby, Leics., in March 1901 the family home was at Debdale Hill, Dalby of the Wolds, Leics. In April 1911 John was employed as a farm servant and was residing in the family home at Debdale Hill, Old Dalby, Leics., together with his parents and siblings, Lilian Kate, born 1904, Louisa Amy, born 1907 and Charles William, born 1909, the latter three siblings were all born in Old Dalby, Leics. His date of death is not conclusive and was given as between 31st July and 7th August 1917. On Friday September 14th 1917 The Melton Mowbray Times & Vale of Belvoir Gazette published the following article under the heading. “LOCAL AND DISTRICT NEWS” – OLD DALBY. LOCAL SOLDIER MISSING.- Mr and Mrs H. Challands have received news that their younger son, Pte. J. Challands is missing. The deepest sympathy is felt for them. On Friday October 26th 1917 The Melton Mowbray Times & Vale of Belvoir Gazette published the following article under the heading. “LOCAL AND DISTRICT NEWS” – OLD DALBY. KILLED IN ACTION.- Much regret is expressed throughout the village at the sad news received by Mr. H. Challands that his son Pte. John (Jack) Challands has been killed in action. Pte. Jack Challands was only 19 years of age, and enlisted in January 1917. He went to France in June. He was of a bright disposition and was a member of the Wesleyan Sunday School and a favourite with all. A memorial service was held on Sunday night when Mr Keyworth occupied the pulpit. The hymns “Nearer my God to Thee” and “Rock of Ages” were sung, Miss Spouge presided at the organ and played the “Dead March.” The deepest sympathy is felt for Mr and Mrs Challands, brother, sisters and friends.