Born c1842 in Colyton, Devon, the son of William East, a potter, and the brother of Thomas East (51C, 61C, 91C).
| 1861 | Potter, Bovey Potteries, Bovey Tracey, Devon (19), living with his parents and siblings (61C). |
| 1871 | Potter’s presser, 19 Harley Street, Hanley, Staffordshire (29), living with his wife Mary M. (29), born in Whimple, Devon (71C). |
| 1881 | Potter’s foreman, 21 Bath Street, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire (39), living with his wife Mary (39) (81C). |
| 1891 | Potter’s manager, Clouds Hill, St George (49), living with his wife Mary (49) (91C). |
| 1901 | John East is not recorded but his wife Mary (59) was living at 2 Atlas Terrace, Feeder Road, St Silas parish (01C). In 1911 she was receiving parish relief as she was ‘married but deserted’ (11C). |