Robert Tailboys (c. 1528 – c. 26 June 1542Elizabeth Norton, Bessie Blount (London 2011) p. 139) was a younger son of Elizabeth Blount and Gilbert Tailboys, 1st Baron Tailboys of Kyme. Through his mother he was the half brother of Henry FitzRoy, Duke of Richmond and Somerset, who was the only illegitimate offspring acknowledged by Henry VIII, King of England.
Birth He was most likely the youngest child of Elizabeth Blount and her first husband Gilbert Tailboys. He was named Robert for his father's grandfather Robert Tailboys.Elizabeth Norton, Bessie Blount (London 2011) p. 177 His birth came between his elder brother's George's birth in 1524 and his father's death in 1530, therefore at the time of his death in 1542 he was still a minor. His birth was probably towards the end of the marriage since there is so little information known about him.Elizabeth Norton, Bessie Blount (London 2011) p. 177
Life Robert succeeded his brother George and was the last direct male line of the Tailboys. In his mother's Gower manuscript his signature is one of those that appears.Elizabeth Norton, Bessie Blount (London 2011) p. 179
Death It has been suggested that Robert Tailboys died from the unhealthy Fen climate.Elizabeth Norton, Bessie Blount (London 2011) p. 178 It has been speculated that Robert may have died as a result of consumption.Elizabeth Norton, Bessie Blount (London 2011) p. 179 Following his death, his sister Elizabeth inherited the barony.
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