posted 7th September 2026
Members and distinguished guests gathered to celebrate a momentous milestone in Cornish Freemasonry: the 50th anniversary of Worshipful Brother Richard James Oakley PPJGW.
Early Life & Professional Dedication
Born in Redruth in February 1955, Richard spent his early years in St Mabyn before his family settled in Liskeard in 1960. Following his education at Liskeard Infants, Juniors, and Secondary Modern, he gained early work experience alongside his father and across local businesses.
Driven by a desire to help others, Richard worked at the Jubilee Inn in Pelynt for five years and spent six years at the Pendean Children’s Home in Liskeard. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree and his Certificate of Qualification in Social Work (CQSW) at Plymouth Polytechnic. His professional career included two years as a probation officer followed by 26 years in various social work roles, devoting his career to the care and protection of others across the region.
At the center of Richard’s life is his family. Married to Evelyn since November 1976, they share two children, Martyn and Suzanne.
A Half-Century in the Craft
Masonic tradition runs deep in the Oakley family. Richard’s father was initiated into St Martin’s Lodge in August 1969, Richard was initiated on July 6, 1976, and his brother David followed in April 1986.
In Craft Masonry, Richard steadily advanced through the offices being installed into the Chair of King Solomon as Worshipful Master of St Martin’s Lodge on November 6, 1990.
On April 3 2004 he received Provincial Honours and was appointed Past Provincial Junior Grand Warden.
A Remarkable Masonic Journey Beyond the Craft
Over his half-century of continuous service, Richard’s dedication has spanned 14 different degrees and active membership in 17 Lodges, Chapters, Councils, and Courts locally, nationally, and internationally:
Royal Arch: Exalted into St Martin’s Chapter (1998); served as MEZ (1998–2000); honoured as Past Provincial Grand Scribe Nehemiah (2009).
Mark & Royal Ark Mariners:Joined St Martin’s Lodge of MMM (2000), WM (2006), Past Provincial Grand Junior Warden (2019). Elevated in RAM (2002), Commander (2013), awarded Provincial RAM Grand Rank. Founder Member of St Anne’s RAM and Honorary Member of St Anne’s Mark Lodge.
Progressive Orders & Beyond: Active leader and member in Royal & Select Masters (Thrice Illustrious Master 2019), Allied Masonic Degrees (Master 2019), Rose Croix (Duchy Chapter), Order of the Secret Monitor (Provincial Grand Steward), Masonic Order of Athelstan (Master 2024, Provincial Grand Assistant Treasurer), and Operatives (Master 2012). Also holds membership in Knights Templar, St Thomas of Acon, and Pilgrim Preceptors.
International Scope:Member of Lodge Fidelity in Malaysia and Founder Member of Kayangan Court in Malaysia under the Order of Athelstan.
The Provincial Grand Lodge of Cornwall extends its warmest congratulations and heartfelt thanks to W. Bro. Richard Oakley PPJGW for 50 years of distinguished service, enthusiasm, and fellowship.
