King Edward VI College are pleased to announce that descendants of John Graham Pearson, a former student who lost his life in the Great War, were located and attended a special memorial unveiling on Monday, 11 November 2024, during the college’s Remembrance Day service. This new memorial is dedicated to honouring all former students and staff who gave their lives during the World Wars.
This unveiling was made possible through the dedicated work of Kenneth Wright, archivist for the Stourbridge Old Edwardian Club, whose research into the college’s war memorial led to the discovery that two students, James Henry Watkins and John Graham Pearson, had not been included on the original plaque. Thanks to support from the College Trustees, a new memorial has been created and installed, ensuring full recognition of all those who served and sacrificed.
Reflecting on the importance of the occasion, Principal Holly Bembridge said, “We honour the sacrifice of all of our former students and staff who died in war, and remembering their lives is an important part of our year. We’re incredibly grateful to Kenneth Wright, who has been tenacious in ensuring that these men are not lost to us, and to our Trustees who have donated this memorial. It is a fitting tribute to these two brave young men.”
The college community is grateful to Dr Chris and Ursula Oxley, relatives of John Graham Pearson, who travelled from Nottinghamshire to attend the event. In paying tribute to these individuals, King Edward VI College honours its legacy of remembrance, ensuring that the stories and sacrifices of its former students live on.
Photos : Unveiling Photo (Left to Right)
• Kenneth Wright (Archivist, Stourbridge Old Edwardian Club)
• Holly Bembridge (Principal, King Edward VI College)
• Ursula Oxley (descendent of John Graham Pearson)
• Dr Chris Oxley (descendent of John Graham Pearson)
Photos numbered 1-4 provided by Dr Chris and Ursula Oxley from their family archive
