W.Bro Tony Ede, PGStB

Tony Ede being six feet plus tall, cut a very impressive figure in a Masonic Lodge, and when I was initiated in October, 1983 he was occupying one of the Warden's Chairs, and I clearly remember he looked very important, and was treated in like manner by all who met him.

Tony became Master of the Lodge of King Solomon's Temple No. 4611 in 1984 and again in the millennium year 2000. He also occupied the Principal's Chair in the Temple Chapter of Jerusalem No. 4611 in 1991 and again in 1992, and served in many offices, but really stamped his mark on both Lodge and Chapter when he took over as Secretary of the Lodge and Scribe E in the Chapter, both jobs he did for approximately 12 years in a very efficient manner, and everyone respected him not only for his knowledge about our Lodge and Chapter and it's history, but also for making sure that our established customs were maintained as our founders had directed.

Tony and I became good friends , sharing our lodge duties - him giving the orders and me paying the bills.

Socially, Tony was also very good company; he enjoyed his food and occasionally a drink, and I remember celebrating one of his birthdays at his home in Bognor, and as was quite usual he got his friends to cook the Bar-B-Q, whilst the ladies prepared the goodies in the house - the only condition being that he kept our glasses topped-up.

This man was a shining example to all who met him; his kindness and compassion shone through that exterior which needed to be cracked before you really could say that you knew him, but I know of many examples where as an Almoner he applied good sense, sound judgement, patience and compassion when dealing with people in need, and I am sure that anyone who met him in this part of his work would agree.

Tony, we all salute you, knowing that you did your very best for all who knew you, and we thank you for that.

Goodbye and God Bless You my friend.