Richard Timbs was born 1897 in Yapham, Yorkshire. He was the son of William and Harriet Timbs.

In the 1911 census Richard's parents were living at Yapham, near Pocklington. They had been married 28 years and had had 17 children, 6 of whom had died.

Richard joined the 5th Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment, Private 3406.

Richard was killed August 15, 1916. He is commemorated at Bailleul Communal Cemetery, Nord, France.

Richard Timbs is the great uncle of Kate Baker of Aycliffe.

At least 3 of Richard's brothers also served in WW1: Arthur Thomas, George Henry and Alfred.