The War Graves of Ystradgynlais

David John Williams served with the Royal Artillery and was killed in action in Italy in September 1943.

The information on David John Williams has been compiled from a number of sources, including the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, from the South Wales Voice newspaper, and the Parish Burial Register (courtesy of the Swansea Archives).

From the South Wales Voice newspaper, 16th October 1943 :-

MISSING
We regret to publish the sad news received by Mrs. D.J. Williams, Cwmtwrch, informing her that her husband Gunner David John Williams, Royal Artillery, is missing, believed killed, with our Mediterranean Forces operating in Italy. Mr. D. J. Williams was before joining, manager of the Cwmllynfell Co-operative Society's Gwys branch, and a leading member of the Cefnbrynbrain Ambulance Brigade, being superintendent of the cadets. He is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Williams, Cefnbrynbrain and son in law of Mr. and Mrs. D. Rees Post Office, Cwmtwrch. Local residents, who hold him in high esteem, will join with us in extending to his family the hope that brighter news will soon be forthcoming.

From the South Wales Voice newspaper, 23rd October 1943 :-

DEATH IN ACTION CONFIRMED
There has been additional news in respect of Gunner David John Williams, Cwmtwrch, son of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Williams, Cefn and it is now definitely stated that he has been killed in action in Italy... Tom was a popular figure at Cwmllynfell as well as at Cwmtwrch, where he was manager of the Gwys Co-operative Stores and well liked by all with whom he came into contact...

From the South Wales Voice newspaper, 30th October 1943 :-

LATE GUNNER D. J. WILLIAMS
Widespread sympathy is extended to Mrs. Williams, wife of Gunner David J. Williams, who recently received the sad news of her husband's death in Italy. Prior to joining the Army, he was the manager of the local Co-operative stores and was well liked by both staff and customers. He was very popular in this district on account of his cheery and kindly disposition, and was a faithful member of Ebenezer Chapel. Mrs. Williams is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Rees (Postmaster) of this village.