Worshipful Brother Michael Batham Read – Updated

Dear Brethren,

Dear Brethren & Companions, I have been informed that W. Bro Mike Read’s funeral is on Tuesday 10th September 12.15pm at Crown Hill Crematorium, Milton Keynes. If you are planning to attend, please email Steve Joyce at stevenjoyce3@googlemail.com

Again, it is my sad duty to inform you of the passing to the Grand lodge above of Worshipful Brother and Excellent Companion Michael Batham Read on the 18th of August 2024 (89)

Michael was initiated on the 14th of March 1975 in Peverel Lodge L7743 (Essex), resigned in 2003. In 1978 he joined Beaudesert Lodge L1087 and was installed as Master in 1986 and subsequently held the office of Chaplain during 2000 – 2006, 2010 – 2014 and 2017 – 2019.  W. Bro Michael also joined Bedfordshire Lodge of Installed Masters L7301 in 1993 and held the offices of Chaplain and Inner Guard. In 1999 he joined Old Bedford Modernians Lodge L5268.

Brother Michael was exalted into Beaudesert Chapter C1087 23rd of October 1980, MEZ in 1990 and Scribe E for over 20 years. Excellent Companion Mike wrote the Chapters 150 anniversary history book. In 2000 he joined Bedfordshire First Principals Chapter C7301

Bro Michaels first Provincial Craft Rank came in 1993 as PPrJGD, in 1998 PPrGSuptWks, PPrGReg in 2005, PPrJGWin 2011 and then in 2017 PPrSGW and Royal Arch Chapter PPrGSN.

Sadly, W. Bro Mike had been suffering with declining health and eyesight for a few years.

Bro Mike dedicated 59 years to Craft freemasonry in Bedfordshire and Essex, and 43 years to Royal Arch Chapter in Bedfordshire.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Marjorie and their family at this very sad time. I shall of course send a condolences card on behalf of you, the Provincial Executive and Brethren.

Requiescat in pace 

Yours sincerely and fraternally

Mike Fitz-Gerald – Provincial Grand Almoner