Source: Michael Doyle Their Name Liveth For Evermore: The Great War Roll of Honour for Leicestershire and Rutland.
He was the son of Edward G. Button a coachman, born 1858 in Cadney, Lincs., and his wife Jelanor, born 1859 in Wansford, Northants. Richard was born in 1889 in East Langton, Leics., his siblings were, George E., born 1882 in Thornhaugh, Northants., Harrison Button, born 1885 and John T., born 1886, the latter two siblings were both born in East Langton, Leics., in April 1891 the family home was at Westgate Lane, Lubenham, Leics. In March 1901 Richard was residing in the family home at 10, The Green, Clipston, Northants., together with his parents and sister Dorothy J., born 1895 in Lubenham, Leics. In April 1911 Richard was serving as a Private with the 1st Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers and was stationed at Multan, Punjab, India. On Saturday March 10th 1917 The Leicester Mercury published the following article under the heading. “THE ROLL OF HONOUR” - “LOCAL MEN IN THE CASUALTY LISTS” - The followings local casualties are officially reported. All are Private’s except where otherwise shown:- KILLED. SHERWOOD FORESTERS.- Button, 16484 L.-Corpl. J. (Leicester).