Percy was born in Melton on 18th October 1883, one of eight children born to Edward and Julia (née Taylor). Percy’s father, Edward, was landlord and brewer at the Coach and Horses in Melton, having taken the pub over from his aunt and uncle who had run the business since 1869. By 1901, Percy had left home and was living and working as a cabinet maker in Ipswich. Ten years later, Percy joined the army and was a corporal in the Royal Engineers, stationed in Pennar Barracks, Pembroke, Wales.

There are no records to say where Percy served during the war. However, he received the British War and Victory Medals indicating he spent some time after 1916 abroad.

In 1939, Percy was living at 14 Grove Road, Woodbridge, having retired from the army. His sister Kate, a widow, worked as his housekeeper. Percy died in 1962 and is buried in Woodbridge Cemetery.