Nestled behind Victorian brick and flint walls in West Worthing, Heene Cemetery is the final resting place for nearly 2,000 souls. Among them lie eight men whose lives were cut short by the First World War, their graves now cared for by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and the Friends of Heene Cemetery. Their stories remind us of the cost of conflict and the enduring value of remembrance.
Lancelot Prickett (1888–1916)
Captain Prickett, only son of Major William Robert Prickett, was educated at Marlborough College and the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich. He served in the Royal Garrison Artillery and Royal Flying Corps, losing his life in a flying accident at Netheravon. His family’s devotion is clear from the loving inscriptions on his headstone.
Johnson Albert Stacey (1881–1915)
Private Stacey was a French Polisher by trade before joining the 4th Battalion Royal Sussex Regiment. Born in Hove, he moved to Worthing with his family and died at 33 while serving his country. His grave is marked by the regimental badge and the enduring care of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
Charles James Figg (1899–1916)
Charles Figg enlisted in the Royal Sussex Regiment at the age of 16, following in the footsteps of his father, who also served in the military. Charles became ill with meningitis and died at home in Worthing at just 17, while still serving his regiment. His grave is marked with the words: “We loved him well, but Jesus loved him best, Thy will be done.”
Walter Sydney Stevens (1899–1918)
Private Stevens enlisted in the Queen’s (Royal West Surrey) Regiment and served in France and Flanders. Wounded during heavy shelling, he died at 18 in hospital after multiple gunshot wounds. His family, who lived in Worthing, mourned the loss of a young life full of promise.
John Leslie Colbourne (1899–1918)
A Second Lieutenant in the Royal Air Force, John Colbourne was the only child of Charles and Ethel Colbourne. Educated at Horsham Grammar School, he joined the RAF’s 16th Training Squadron in early 1918. Tragically, he was killed in a flying accident in Wiltshire at just 18 years old. His headstone bears the inscription: “We know not what a day will bring forth. Thy will be done.”
Joseph Henry Thomas (1872–1919)
Lieutenant and Quartermaster Sergeant Thomas was born in Pembroke Dock and served in the Royal Welsh Fusiliers. He saw action in Malta, India, South Africa, and France, and was awarded campaign medals for his long service. He died in Worthing at 47, his grave a symbol of dedication across decades and continents.
Cuthbert Frederick Graham Page (1880–1919)
Lieutenant-Colonel Page was a career soldier, decorated with the CMG, DSO, and Italy’s Silver Medal for Valour. He served in the South African War and World War I, where he was mentioned in dispatches three times. He died from injuries received in action, leaving behind his wife Gladys and two children. His grave inscription reads: “Quo fas et Gloria docunt”—Where right and glory lead.
Thomas Cecil Prowse (1892–1919)
Leading Signalman Prowse served in the Royal Navy aboard HMS Cleopatra. Born in Antrim, he moved to Worthing with his family and joined the Navy at 16. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal and died at 25, his grave a testament to his service and sacrifice.
A Place of Memory and Reflection
Heene Cemetery stands not only as a place of rest but as a living memorial to those who gave their lives in service. The Friends of Heene Cemetery continue to research and share these stories, ensuring that the sacrifices of these men are never forgotten. As the seasons change and nature flourishes around their graves, the community gathers in gratitude, remembering the courage, youth, and hope that was lost—and the peace that endures.
"At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them"