Born: 1880, 17th October. Baptised 7th November 1880 at St. Clements Church, Nechells, Birmingham.

Place of Birth: Birmingham.

Died: 21st March 1959 in Water Orton, Warwickshire.

Parents: Henry and Mary Ann Coles, nee Pitch.

Marriages: Alice Maud Gilbert in 1904, date and venue unknown.

Children: Alfred Victor 1904 and Francis James 1909.

Occupation: Insurance Agent.

Notes: In the 1881 Census, Francis was living with his parents and siblings at 22 Railway Terrace, Aston, Birmingham. In the 1891 Census, the family were again living in Railway Terrace. In the 1911 Census, Francis, Alice and children were living in Bennetts Road, Saltley, Birmingham.

Frances served in the Army during the 1914-18 War, though the date of enlistment is unknown, he was discharged 12th March 1919. He first served in the Medical Corps, Service Number 74, as an Acting Corporal. He transferred to the Royal Engineers, Service Number 491851. It then appears he returned to the Medical Corps, Service Number 445028. He was awarded the Victory Medal together with the 1914-18 Star.