W Bro Stuart Douglas Hamilton

Dear Brethren,

It is with great sadness that I must inform you of the passing to the Grand lodge above of Worshipful Brother & E. Comp Stuart Douglas Hamilton at home on the 31st of December 2023 (76)

Bro Stuart dedicated 30 years to the Craft and 17 years to the Royal Arch Chapter.

Stuart was initiated on the 1st of March 1993 into Gillingham Lodge of Friendship L8453 (E. Kent), resigned in 1999. In 1995 he joined Russell Lodge L4413 becoming Worshipful Master in 2001 and thereafter held the offices of Charity Steward and Almoner for many years. In 1995 Bro Stuart joined Sir William Harpur Lodge L2343, was installed as Master in 2003 and subsequently held the offices of Chaplain, Treasurer (twice), Secretary and Charity Steward.

Brother Stuart was exalted into the Sir William Harpur Chapter C2343 on 24th October 2006, MEZ in 2014. Subsequently becoming Treasurer (twice) and also Charity Steward.

E. Companion Stuart joined Bedfordshire First Principles Chapter C7301 in 2022.

His first Provincial Craft promotion came in 2006, PPrJGD and in 2012 the active rank of PrGSuptWks, then 2018 PPrGSwdB. In Royal Arch Chapter E. Comp Stuart was appointed the active rank of PrGStB in 2018

Worshipful Brother Stuart fully supported all the Lodges and Chapters he was a member of and was also a very dedicated Director of the Keep Ltd. for many years ensuring the important works of maintaining the building was carried out.

Stuart bravely soldiered on with cancer but sadly lost that battle with dignity. He will be missed by all those that knew him and a huge loss to Freemasonry, particularly in Bedford.

I will of course advise you of any further details as and when I receive them.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his Wife June at this very sad time. I shall be sending a condolences card on behalf of you, the Executive and Brethren.

Requiescet in pace

Yours sincerely and fraternally

Mike Fitz-Gerald – Provincial Grand Almoner