Parris Lawn Resident Keith Celebrates 50 Years As A Freemason
The team at Parris Lawn were delighted to host a celebratory tea party for resident, Keith, when they discovered he had reached a landmark anniversary with the Freemasons.
Shared Interests and Camaraderie of the Freemasons
Keith Simmonds lived in Yorkshire as a child but moved to London in the 1950s and later joined the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers as a musician – a percussionist, to be exact. He enjoyed the camaraderie and meeting people with similar interests and also discovered that some of his fellow soldiers were Freemasons. Keith was initiated as a member in 1975, aged 33
Freemasonry is centuries old, thought to have begun with the skilled medieval stonemasons who built cathedrals and castles in England and across Europe. They formed guilds to ensure the quality of their work, protect trade secrets and support fellow masons and their families. By the early 18th century with less demand for castles and cathedrals, lodges were accepting non-stonemasons—gentlemen, scholars, and professionals – and Freemasonry was transformed. Today, its diverse membership is focused on self-improvement, social networking and charity fundraising, and the Masonic Charitable Foundation continues to support members and their families in need, as well as local and national charities.
"Overcome with Pride" at Achieving Long Service Award
Last week, Keith was presented with a Long Service Award by fellow members of his Lodge, marking 50 years’ contribution to Freemasonry. The team at Parris Lawn Residential Care Home organised a special celebration in the lounge and Keith’s friends chatted with staff who were interested to find out about their charitable work. Everyone enjoyed tea and cake and it was lovely to see the pleasure that Keith’s visitors brought him. Keith explained that being a Freemason brings together like-minded people from all walks of life - one of the things he most enjoys - and when asked how he felt about his his long service award, he declared, “Overcome with pride”.
The team at Parris Lawn are always looking for ways to celebrate their residents’ achievements – whether past or present – and were pleased to have brought Keith’s to life by hosting a happy and sociable event.
A Warm Welcome to Parris Lawn
Tucked away in the peaceful village of Ringmer near Lewes, Parris Lawn Care Home offers a calm and comforting environment with beautiful views over the South Downs. With 62 individually styled rooms, each with an en-suite wet room, residents enjoy privacy and comfort tailored to their needs. Whether your loved one requires residential, nursing, dementia, or respite care, our compassionate team is here to provide personalised support every step of the way.
Life at Parris Lawn is about more than just care, it’s about creating meaningful moments. Residents can relax in our cosy cinema, socialise in the bistro café, or treat themselves to a fresh new look in the hair salon. Our varied activities, from creative arts and crafts to gentle exercise and group games, help keep minds and bodies engaged in a friendly and supportive setting.
