R.W.M. Jim Towers RWM
D.M. Bill Milne
S.M. Jim Hutton
S.W. Alex Noble
J.W. Kenny Davidson
Sec. Bill Butler P.M.
Tres. Gordon Daniel P.M.
J.D. Jim Gardiner
I.G. A Scott
Tyler. Jock Warrander
In November 1980, Brother Jim Towers was installed in the Chair of King Solomon as Right Worshipful Master of Lodge St. Olaf No. 1188. Although an affiliated member—his mother lodge being in his native Orkney Islands—Jim quickly became one of the most respected and valued figures within our lodge.
His tenure came at an important time in the history of Lodge St. Olaf. The early 1980s saw the beginning of a period of renewal, with a wave of younger members joining the lodge. Jim was part of a strong and supportive middle generation of brethren who helped guide and encourage these new members. His experience, warmth, and dedication to the craft ensured that the traditions of the lodge were not only preserved but actively passed on to the next generation.
Jim was known for his excellent ritual work and thoughtful leadership, but he was also remembered for the spirit of fellowship he brought to the lodge. A talented fiddle player, he rarely missed the opportunity to join in with the musicians among the younger brethren who found their way to Lodge St. Olaf during that time.
Music and fellowship became a defining feature of lodge life in the early 1980s. Under Jim’s stewardship—and that of the Right Worshipful Masters who followed him—the lodge became locally renowned for the quality and enthusiasm of its harmonies, held in the Kilmarnock Arms following degree nights.
These evenings became legendary among the brethren. During a pause in the formal proceedings, a headcount would be taken of those planning to attend the harmony. A runner—most often Brother Doug Sheal—would then make his way to the Killie kitchen to inform them how many brethren to expect, ensuring that the traditional stovies were prepared in sufficient quantity.
These simple but memorable traditions strengthened the bonds of friendship within the lodge and helped establish a welcoming atmosphere that attracted many new members in the years that followed.
The spirit of camaraderie, encouragement, and renewal that defined this period helped lay the foundations for a decade of growth within Lodge St. Olaf. The lodge welcomed many new members throughout the 1980s and beyond, building a vibrant and active brotherhood that continued to flourish.
Jim’s contribution to this transformation was significant. His support of younger members, combined with his experience and leadership, helped create a lodge culture that balanced tradition, mentorship, and fellowship.
Outside Freemasonry, Jim led a distinguished life of service. During the 1980s he worked as a university lecturer, a role that reflected both his intellect and his passion for education.
He later became a well-respected local councillor, first elected to the Grampian Regional Council in 1990, representing the Ugie, Cruden, and Boddam Division. He was re-elected in 1994 and subsequently served on Aberdeenshire Council following local government reorganisation, representing the Cruden area until his retirement in 2007.
Tributes following his passing on 21 October 2022 reflected the high regard in which he was held. Former MSP Stewart Stevenson described him as:
“A well-respected and much-liked local councillor… a radical thinker on education issues and someone deeply committed to representing the people of his ward.”
Councillor Stephen Smith noted Jim’s important role in building political support in the Buchan area, while SNP chief executive Peter Murrell remembered him as one of the “true gents” of local public life—respected for his wisdom, dedication, and understanding of the communities he served.
Brother Jim Towers will always be remembered within Lodge St. Olaf as a dedicated mason, a supportive mentor, and a brother who embodied the spirit of fellowship. His leadership during a pivotal period helped shape the lodge into the welcoming and thriving brotherhood it became in the years that followed.
Through his service within the lodge, his music at the harmonies, and his encouragement of younger brethren, Jim left a legacy that continues to be felt to this day.
His memory remains a valued part of the history and traditions of Lodge St. Olaf No. 1188.