Storekeeper John James Laidlaw served in the Merchant Navy during World War Two. Born on 9th May 1874, he was the son of John Laidlaw and Isabella Laidlaw (née Wood) of Edinburgh, Midlothian, Scotland. He was the husband of Catherine Laidlaw of 5 Washington Street, Belfast, Co. Antrim.
He died on 5th November 1940 aged 64 years old. He was onboard SS Kenbane Head went it came under attack from the Kriegsmarine surface raider Admiral Scheer. A total of 24 men died when the Belfast built vessel went down off the coast of Greenland.
John Laidlaw has no known grave. His name is on Panel 60 of the Tower Hill Memorial, London, England.