Page 5 - Keystone Summer 2020 Issue 5

Welcome to our new Provincial Grand Almoner

W Bro Robert O’Malley-White or, as he is known to most, Bob,
became our new Provincial Grand Almoner on the 2nd May 2020,
taking over from W Bro David Lyons after many outstanding years of
service.

Through the Keystone Magazine we asked Bob to give us a little
insight into his background and his Masonic career.

I obtained a Boarder-Orphan Scholarship to Queen Elizabeth’s
Hospital, Bristol, where I wore the traditional blue coat, cravat,
breeches and yellow stockings, my first taste of traditional apparel.

I enjoyed the school’s ATC 1495 Squadron and flew in Comet, Hastings and Chipmunk
aircraft.

My first job at 16 was with Law Union & Rock Insurance, sticking stamps, writing names and
addresses in a post ledger and filing. Eventually, whilst with Royal Insurance at Slough, I left
to form my Financial Brokerage here in Wells in 1968.

My love of the Mendips and the countryside drew me to this beautiful City.
I helped form the QEH Caving Club, then joined the Bristol Exploration Club in 1962, I am still
a member. I have ventured into caves in South Wales and Yorkshire. I also enjoyed walking/
climbing trips to Snowdonia, Scotland and Austria. We love walking, most recently on the
coastal paths of the Scillies.

I enjoy steam trains e.g. the Isle of Man and regular trips to castles, National Trust properties
and other ancient sites. I love live theatre, especial the amazing acrobats and choreographed
shows of the Cirque de Soleil.

I found my favourite hobby, flying, in 1996 having trained in a-lawnmower-engine AX2000,
thereafter enjoying flying adventures all over the UK and South of France. I have now
regretfully, due to my age, sold my Tecnam aircraft which was painted in RAF colours.

After much research, I found my family history in Ballyconneely, near Clifden in Eire and we
have spent many months in recent years exploring and enjoying the lovely west coast and
mountains of western Eire.

I met my lovely wife Lynne, a teacher of 38 years, in 2010. She is very supportive of my
Masonic commitments and working hours.

I have three children, Ros and Aby who live locally and Mark who lives in Los Angeles.
We also love to explore the history, coastline and hills of the western United States when we
visit.

We have seven grandchildren with whom we have enjoyed zip-wiring in North Wales, go-kart
racing, deep sea fishing and our Dunkerswell parachute jump.

My Masonic Journey in Craft: I was initiated into Sir Thomas de Cheddre Lodge 1987, became
PPGSB -2009. I am currently a member of Benevolent Lodge 446.
I joined RAM in 2012, and am currently SO, Joined MARK: Mendip Lodge-2004, becoming
WM 2014 & 2015 and currently Chaplain. IOW Founder Member 2010, and I am currently
Treasurer: Joined Somerset Installed Masters- 2016: I became Provincial PGR in 2016 +
2017, becoming PPGJO 2018.

Summer Issue 2020 Page5