Fred Thornback: A Legacy of Service, Charity, and Freemasonry
Fred Thornbacks lifetime of distinguished service to Freemasonry and the wider community
It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Fred Thornback, who died in the early hours of Wednesday 18th March 2026, with his daughter Lorraine by his side.
Born in 1929, Fred lived a full and dedicated life, marked by service, to his family, his community, and to Freemasonry.
Originally from Southend and residing in the Thorpe Bay area throughout his life, Fred was a respected local businessman, running the tar paving company founded by his father until his retirement a few years ago. Yet it was his commitment to helping others that truly defined him.
Fred was initiated into Freemasonry in 1954 in St Andrew’s Lodge No. 1817 and exalted into St Andrew’s Chapter No. 1817 in 1960. His Masonic journey was one of remarkable longevity and distinction. He served as Worshipful Master of St Andrew’s Lodge in 1966 and, notably, again in 1999, an extraordinary testament to the regard in which he was held by his Brethren. He was also Master of Essex Masters Lodge No. 3256 in 1987, having been a subscribing member of that Lodge since 1968.
In the Royal Arch, Fred served as First Principal of St Andrew’s Chapter in 1970 and later as First Principal of Essex First Principals Chapter in 1987, further reflecting his deep commitment across both the Craft and the Royal Arch.
His service was recognised at the highest levels. He was appointed Deputy Provincial Grand Master and Deputy Grand Superintendent in Essex, serving from 1986 to 1994 under Guy Jerman. He received the rank of Past Grand Sword Bearer in the Royal Arch in 1986 and in the Craft in 1987. In 2014, he was awarded the Distinguished Service to Essex Masonry (DSEM).
Fred was also widely respected across the Province, holding honorary membership in eight Essex Craft Lodges and three Essex Chapters, including Essex Provincial Grand Stewards and West Essex Lodge.
However, Fred’s most enduring legacy lies in his work with the Southend and Essex Masonic Welfare Trust (SEMWT), which he helped to establish in 1973 alongside St Andrew’s Lodge and Guy Jerman. The Trust was founded with a clear and compassionate purpose: to provide practical assistance, particularly mobility aids, to those in need, often at very short notice. One of its proudest achievements was the ability to respond to requests within a day, ensuring that help reached those who needed it without delay.
The Trust’s work extended beyond equipment provision. It organised fortnightly holidays for beneficiaries from across the country and hosted regular luncheon events where widows were welcomed to dine free of charge, fostering both care and companionship.
At the heart of this work was Fred’s partnership with his beloved wife, Vivian, who predeceased him. Together they formed a remarkable team. Graham Halsey, who became involved with the Trust after witnessing its impact, spoke warmly of Fred and Vivian and the inspiration they provided. Graham remains actively involved today, as does the Trust, continuing the outstanding work that Fred helped to build.
Fred Thornback will be remembered not only for his distinguished Masonic career and many honours, but for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of others.
His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and in the continued work of the Southend and Essex Masonic Welfare Trust.
Photos:
Top: The Provincial Grand Master Paul Tarrant with Fred on his celebration of 70-years in Freemasonry during March 2024
Left: Fred with his beloved wife Vivian
Right: Fred with his SEMWT team at a Cockney event as part of the Trusts 50-year celebrations
