John Grey of Groby facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir John Grey of Groby
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![]() Arms of Grey: Barry of six argent and azure
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Born | c. 1432 |
Died | |
Spouse(s) | Elizabeth Woodville |
Children | Thomas Grey, 1st Marquess of Dorset Richard Grey |
Parent(s) | Elizabeth Ferrers, 6th Baroness Ferrers of Groby Edward Grey, 6th Baron Ferrers of Groby |
Sir John Grey of Groby (born around 1432 – died February 17, 1461) was an important knight from Leicestershire, England. He lived during a time of big changes in English history. Sir John was known for fighting for the Lancastrian side in a famous conflict called the Wars of the Roses.
He was also the first husband of Elizabeth Woodville. She later became Queen of England when she married King Edward IV of England. Sir John Grey was also the great-great-grandfather of Lady Jane Grey, who was Queen of England for a very short time much later.
Sir John's Family and Titles
Sir John Grey was born into a powerful and noble family. His mother was Elizabeth Ferrers, who was the 6th Baroness Ferrers of Groby. This meant she held an important title and lands. His father was Sir Edward Grey.
When Sir John's father passed away in 1457, his mother remarried. She married John Bourchier, who also became Baron Ferrers of Groby through her.
Sir John Grey himself passed away before his mother. Because of this, his oldest son, Thomas, inherited the title of Baron Ferrers of Groby. Sir John was never officially called to Parliament to take a seat as a Baron.
His Wife and Children
Around the year 1452, Sir John Grey married Elizabeth Woodville. She was the oldest daughter of Richard Woodville, 1st Earl Rivers, and Jacquetta of Luxembourg. Their marriage brought together two important families.
Sir John and Elizabeth had two sons together. Their first son, Thomas, was born in 1455. He later became a Marquess, which is a very high noble rank. Their second son, Richard, was born in 1457.
After Sir John passed away, his widow Elizabeth became Queen of England. This happened when she secretly married King Edward IV.
Death in Battle
Sir John Grey was killed during a major battle in 1461. This was the Second Battle of St Albans. He was fighting for the Lancastrian side, which was one of the two main families fighting for control of England during the Wars of the Roses.
His death was a big event. It left his wife, Elizabeth, a widow with two young sons. Not long after, she would go on to marry King Edward IV. He was the leader of the Yorkist side, the family that won the war.