Today (May 20, 2017), Jewel P. Lightfoot Lodge No. 1283 gathered to recognize Brother Billy J. Williams, who has been a member of the lodge for over 70 years. Bro. Williams’ history with our lodge is very nearly as long-running as the lodge itself. He received the Symbolic Degrees in 1946, just three years after the lodge received its charter at the end of 1942, at which time it bore the name South Dallas Lodge No. 1283.

Now at 96 years of age, Bro. Williams is the second oldest living member of the lodge and has lived more years as a Master Mason than any other member. Prior to becoming a Mason, he successfully completed 38 missions as a B-29 Superfortress gunner during World War II, the last of which was in progress over Japan at the same time the first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima.

Worshipful Master David Bindel presented Bro. Williams with a beautiful certificate and pin issued by the Grand Lodge of Texas under the hand of Grand Master Jerry N. Kirby, and many of the brothers present offered words of gratitude and congratulations.

Bro. Williams’ proclamation to the attendees: “I am proud to be a Mason!”

And the lodge is honored to have him!