Bryan Funderburke, Sr.

Bryan Funderburke, Sr., was born in Palestine, Texas, on September 28, 1900. He received his degrees in Gray Lodge in 1930: the Entered Apprentice on March 7, the Fellowcraft on April 25, and the Master Mason degree on May 29. After serving as Junior and Senior Deacon he was elected Junior Warden for 1937–1938, then served as Senior Warden, and was installed as the 68th Master on St. John’s Day in 1939 by Past Master Norman Atkinson, assisted by Past Master Hughy A. Johnson.

The annual report that summer showed a net gain of 18 members, bringing the lodge to 918, and the mortgage on the Gray-Temple Masonic Corporation had been reduced from $27,500 to $25,000 and refinanced at 4¾ percent. World War II began in Europe on September 1, 1939, early in his term. In November his fellow employees at the Hughes Tool Company presented him with a Masonic token.

Holders of certificates of proficiency in the ritual formed an organization that met in Gray Lodge on March 1, 1940. Committees of Gray and Temple Lodges met to settle differences over the Gray-Temple Masonic Corporation and reported that “the difficulties had been ironed out.” Brother J. E. Whitehead presented the lodge with a chromium-plated gong, and at the Grand Master’s request the Masons of the 30th District gathered for a Rededication Night at the Scottish Rite Cathedral.

He remained one of the lodge’s most active Past Masters for decades, serving often as installing officer and as Chaplain. He was High Priest of Washington Chapter No. 2, Royal Arch Masons, in 1945–1946, Past Thrice Illustrious Master of Houston Council No. 1, Royal and Select Masters, and Eminent Commander of Ruthven Commandery No. 2, Knights Templar, in 1953. In 1941 the High Priest of Washington Chapter presented him with a handmade gavel in appreciation of his Royal Arch work. He was also a 32° Scottish Rite Mason. He died on October 16, 1967.