The care, compassion and concern exhibited by the Masons of Ohio are often and rightly extended to the widows of deceased Brothers across the state. One such instance occurred in North Bristol, when the members of Western Reserve Lodge 507 began work on the home of Mrs. Roberta “Bertie” Davison.
Bertie’s late husband, Robert was a past Worshipful Master of Lodge 507 in West Farmington and a self-employed welder. He and Bertie lived in the same house for nearly the entirety of their 58-year marriage and, although the interior of their home was always neat and cozy, the outside had gradually begun to show its more than 100 years of age.
After Robert passed away in 2011, the members of his Lodge remained in touch with his widow and in 2014, John Mahan, the then current Worshipful Master, approached Bertie with a plan to spruce up her home. Lodge members spent the summer painting, making repairs to the roof and rebuilding the front porch to its original splendor. As the project continued through to 2015, the Brothers found more tasks to undertake, including replacing the old furnace. Those who were unable to help with the work made monetary donations, supplied refreshments and offered moral support.
“It made everyone feel really good to be able to help,” said Brother Mahan. “The neighbors would come over and admire the progress and this little lady’s sense of pride went wild. She sat on that front porch all summer long with her iced tea in the evening and you could just tell she was in her glory.”
The members of Western Reserve Lodge 507 were all humbled by the chance to serve the widow of one of their late Brothers. Although their display of compassion was one of duty, it was also a true testament to the Masonic ideal of Brotherly Love.
