OBITUARY

Gerald Olubumie Solomon Hedd
We are once again gathered to remember that we are but pilgrims and strangers here
on earth. This thought is strengthened by Tom Tredway who says “This world is
not my home; I am just a passing through; my treasurers are laid up somewhere
beyond the blue. The Angels beckon me from heaven’s open door And I can’t
feel at home in this world anymore”
The hymnist says we have no abiding city here, sad truth were this to be our
home; but let this thought over spirits cheer, we seek a city yet to come.
Yes Brethren, The Imperial mandate of the dreaded Messager, Death has struck again
on this our beloved Lodge.
Gerald Olubumie Solomon Hedd was summoned to Grand Lodge above on the 3rd
June, 2024. He was born on Wednesday 31st August, 1949 – note, he was born on a
Wednesday and died on a Monday. He started his Masonic career when he was
initiated into Freemasonry on 28th May, 1984. This in effect means that he has spent
40 years in Masonry. He was passed on 27th July, 1984 and raised on 28th September,
1984. He was honored by brethren of Lodge Travellers when he was rewarded with
the highest honor a Lodge has in its power to confer on its member when he was
installed as Master of The Lodge on 17th March 1995. Before his installation as Right
Worshipful Master, he held various offices in the Lodge and performed diligently to
the admiration of all. After he was installed, he continued to be committed to the
principles of the Lodge and Freemasonry in particular which led the Lodge to extend
the enviable position of Director of Ceremonies i.e., the one responsible for all
ceremonies of the Lodge within and without of the Temple.
He held this position for a good number of years until he handed it over to the
present District Grand Master Bro. Chrispin Bishop Deigh P.M. In view of his
commitment, he was accorded several District ranks and quite recently, about two
years ago, he was given an Honorary commission rank of Hon. Substitute District
Grand Master. He was not content with the Blue Lodge only. He made progress in
the science when he was exalted at Unity Royal Arch Chapter and again attained the
highest rank when was made 1st Principal in …………………… Again, before
attaining this position, he served in various offices including 1st Sojourner.
Pursuing our science further, he was warmly perfected at S. Leone Sovereign
Chapter No. 174. He was also received at Dabenco Lodge and Council and Masaboin
Cryptic Council. It must be noted that by the time he was installed as Worshipful
Commander Noah and Most Excellent Chief, his health started to deteriorate. He
was further invited to the 30th Degree. It was a ceremony of this Degree in May that
I last saw him.
Personally, he has been a true friend and worthy brother to me. I recollect that both
of us spoke on the telephone on the third week in May when I called him on some
issues for which I needed his input. He complimented his Masonic activities with
his Church activities, becoming Vicars Warden, a position he held for a good number
of years.
You know a popular S. Leonean Hymnist, Sam O. J. Macauley said in one of
his hymns “when you woke fo God, loses nor go day” Remember, Jesus said, I
go and build you a home that where I am there, you will be also. Our brother
is in the Lord Jesus has built him a mansion.
I have no iota of doubt in my mind that Bro. Gerald Olubumie Solomon Hedd is in
the right hand of The Great Architect of The Universe.
On behalf of the Right Worshipful Master and Brethren of Lodge Travellers Lodge
No. 1455 S.C, I extend to you Ajara his wife, Gwendo, his last surviving sister, other
siblings and family members our deepest condolences.
May he Rest in Perfect Peace!!!