R.W.M. Jim Taylor
I.P.M. Gordon Mackay
D.M. Jim Conner
S.M. Bill Murray
S.W. Barrie Harper
J.W. Neil Daniel
Sec. James Gardiner P.M.
Tres. Doug Sheal
S.D. Mark Dunn
J.D. Ewan Robertson
I.G. Hugh Durrant
Tyler. Jock Warrander
Almoner Kenny Davidson
Chaplain. Joe Metcalf.
S.Steward. Raymond Thomson
J.Steward. Kenny Melvine
B.B. Graeme Sutherland
Jim Taylor became an affiliate member of Lodge St. Olaf on 4th March 1982, having previously been initiated into his Mother Lodge, Lodge Forbes No. 67. From the very moment he joined the Lodge, Jim quickly established himself as a valued and enthusiastic member, bringing with him not only a strong sense of fraternity and commitment, but also an infectious energy that helped define an important chapter in the Lodge’s history.
The 1980s proved to be a vibrant and transformative period for Lodge St. Olaf, with a dedicated group of younger members determined to ensure that the Lodge remained relevant, welcoming, and firmly connected to the heart of village life. Jim stood proudly among this dynamic generation, contributing his time, ideas, and talents to the continued growth and success of the Lodge. Together, this close-knit cohort worked tirelessly to foster a warm and inclusive environment where young men and their families could gather in friendship and fellowship. Their collective efforts strengthened the social fabric of the community and ensured that Lodge St. Olaf remained a respected and cherished institution for future generations.
Beyond his Masonic life, Jim was widely respected in his professional career as an art teacher at Peterhead Academy. His role as an educator reflected both his creativity and his ability to inspire and encourage others, qualities that naturally carried over into his contributions within the Lodge. Possessing considerable artistic talent, Jim left a permanent and deeply meaningful legacy during the major refurbishment of the Lodge in 1987.
It was during this refurbishment that Jim created what has since become one of the Lodge’s most admired and distinctive features — the magnificent mural of King Solomon that adorns the East Wall. Carefully and skillfully painted, the mural stands as a lasting testament to Jim’s artistic ability, dedication, and love for Freemasonry. Over the years it has been admired by countless brethren and visitors alike, becoming not only a focal point within the Lodge room but also a treasured piece of its history and identity.
Adding an especially personal and touching detail to the work, Jim incorporated a self-portrait of himself as a young Mason within the mural. This subtle inclusion serves as a lasting reminder of the pride he took in both his craft and his Masonic journey. Through this remarkable piece of artwork, Jim ensured that a part of himself would forever remain within the walls of Lodge St. Olaf, continuing to inspire future generations of brethren who gather there. Read More→
Beyond his contributions to Lodge St. Olaf, Jim also played an active role in the wider Masonic community. He became a respected member of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Aberdeenshire East, representing the Lodge with distinction and earning the respect of his peers. In October 2022 his decades of service and dedication to Freemasonry were fittingly recognised in a formal ceremony, during which he was honored for 50 years of commitment to the craft, an achievement captured in the the photograph below.
Left To Right: Gordon Thomson Provincial Grand Sec. Douglas Nicol Provincial Grand Master of Aberdeenshire East, Past Master Bro.Jim Taylor, (standing) Douglas Grant Past Provincial Grand Master of Aberdeenshire East, Ronnie Simpson Past Provincial Grand Master of Aberdeenshire East.
28/02/2025
Announcement
Sad tidings Brethren, I have received information that P.M. Bro. Jim Taylor of Lodge Forbes No.67 and more recently Lodge St. Olaf No. 1188 has laid down the working tools of this life and Passed to the Grand Lodge Above. I believe that his funeral will take place on Monday 10th March. I’ll post more details when known.
RWPGM