2019. Personal life John Cobb married Elizabeth Mitchell-Smith in 1947. Elizabeth died from Bright's Disease 14 months later. In 1950 he married Vera Victoria Henderson (1917–2007). Cobb resided at 'Grove House' in Esher, an 18th-century mansion, which was demolished in the late 20th century for building development. A public green in Esher (located at 51.37933 -0.36472) was named 'Cobb Green' in tribute to his achievements. In 2013 an archaeological excavation of meadowland at Arran Way at Esher's Lower Green uncovered the foundations of Grove House. In 2017 a Blue plaque was unveiled by Richard Noble to Cobb's memory at the newly re-built Cranmere Primary School which partially occupies the site of the former Grove House estate. Awards British Empire Trophy (1932). Segrave Trophy (1947). Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct (1953). References Citations Bibliography External links The Reluctant Hero by David Tremayne Location and Google Street View of John Cobb Memorial Segrave Trophy recipients BRDC Gold Star winners Land speed record people Water speed records Brooklands people English racing drivers British motorboat racers Brighton Speed Trials people Recipients of the Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct Air Transport Auxiliary pilots Royal Air Force officers British World War II pilots People from Esher People educated at Eton College 1899 births 1952 deaths Bonneville 300 MPH Club members Motorboat racers who died while racing Sport deaths in Scotland Grand Prix drivers Filmed deaths in motorsport