Harmony Lodge No. 5835, meeting in Harrow, has a history as rich as its traditions. Founded in the midst of World War II on May 29, 1941, the lodge carries historical ties to the legendary De Havilland aviation company, known for pioneering aircraft innovation. With such an aeronautical connection, it seems only fitting that one of its most remarkable widows, Mrs. Doris Lee, has a penchant for soaring through the skies—literally.
Like many lodges, Harmony Lodge ensures that its widows are remembered at Christmas, sending each one a thoughtful cheque as a seasonal gift. This year, the lodge Almoner, W. Bro Ken Hutchings, received a thank-you letter from none other than Doris Lee—a letter that was as extraordinary as the lady herself.
Why? Because Doris is 101 years young, and calling her “active” would be an understatement of epic proportions.
Doris Takes to the Skies—With a Parachute, of Course!
For her 100th birthday, while most people might settle for a slice of cake and a quiet gathering, Doris decided to take flight in a powered glider. And, because she clearly doesn’t do things by halves, she strapped on a parachute pack just in case. When bad weather extended the flight to 1.5 hours, did Doris panic? Not a chance. She simply took it in her stride, enjoying every extra minute soaring above the landscape.
And she’s not stopping there—for her 102nd birthday, her family has planned a riverboat trip. One can only assume bungee jumping or wing-walking is on the agenda for future birthdays.
A Legacy of Dedication to Harmony Lodge
Doris isn’t just the most senior widow of Harmony Lodge—she’s an integral part of its history. Her late husband, W. Bro Bill Lee, was a dedicated member of the lodge, earning the distinction of being the first member to receive a 50-year certificate in 2008. As the Lodge Festival Secretary, Bill played a crucial role in organising events, and Doris was right by his side, assisting in running the much-loved Ladies’ Festivals.
A Thank-You Note That Inspired a Lodge
What started as a simple thank-you note turned into a reminder of the remarkable lives behind the names in the lodge records. Doris Lee is not just a part of Harmony Lodge’s history—she’s a living legend, proving that adventure doesn’t stop with age.
Here’s to Doris—may her future birthdays be as bold, thrilling, and full of surprises as the last!
Congratulations for 60 year’s of service to Freemasonry
Doris also sent a separate card congratulating W Bro Ken Hutchings PPJGW on his 60 years in Freemasonry where she also mentioned the Ladies Nights and her son Graham who is also a Freemason.
