It is with great sadness that we must advise that WBro Jim Tarry PPSGW, Holder of the RW Provincial Grand Masters' Certificate of Merit passed to the Grand Lodge Above on 25th March 2025. Details of the funeral can be found at the bottom of the article.
Funeral details will follow when available.
The following tribute was paid to WBro Jim by WBro Norman Pope PSGD, PAsstPGM on his being awarded the Provincial Grand Master's Certificate of Merit in 2020;
WBro Jim Tarry PPSGW is of farming stock and has lived in Stoke Bruerne for much of his life.
WBro Jim's family were steeped in Freemasonry, so it was no surprise when he was initiated into Old Northamptonian Lodge No. 5694 in 1991.
I had the good fortune to install Jim as Master of the lodge in 1998, by which time we were all aware that Jim's life on the farm presented many challenges. Various incidents involving farm machinery resulted in Jim's knees and several shoulder-parts having to be replaced.
Having progressed through the offices of the Lodge in fine form, Jim enjoyed a good year in the Chair and soon saw the joy of filling the office of Tyler, taking responsibility for the preparation of candidates whilst putting them at ease for their ceremonies.
As a result, Jim subsequently accepted the office of Tyler in 12-lodges.
The ability to perform this role so well resulted in Jim’s appointment to Provincial Grand Tyler in 2003, a post he held for 10-years. The role is an important one that carries the responsibility of ensuring everything is in order prior to the opening of Provincial Grand Lodge.
Jim's delivery of the Tyler's Toast continues to be a favourite of many.
Jim has also held the office of Almoner in the Old Northamptonian and Grand Junction lodges, during which time he developed special relationships with lodge members and widows alike, relationships that still blossom today.
Jim continued with much of his farming activity until recently.
In addition to managing the Stoke Bruerne Cricket Club facilities, he also has a permanent spot at The Boat Inn at Stoke Bruerne, where he celebrated his 70th Birthday in 2017.
His love of a good pint had a lot to do with his preference for being Tyler - an empty glass outside all of his tyled lodge-rooms will testify to this!
The Provincial Grand Master's Certificate of Merit is carefully gifted and reflects a Brother's above-and-beyond commitment to the Province in his Masonic activities.
REQUISCAT IN PACE
He lived respected, and died regretted.
His funeral takes place on Tuesday 15 April at St Mary the Virgin in Stoke Bruerne at 11.00.
A wake to celebrate his life follows at The Boat Inn where Jim enjoyed his beer.