11/30/2025
Member Spotlight: Brother Bobby Lynn Meadows, 33°
For more than four decades, Illustrious Brother Bobby Lynn Meadows, 33°, has been a steadfast presence, a guiding voice, and a committed servant within the Scottish Rite. His Masonic journey—rich with tradition, family ties, and personal devotion—began in 1982 and has now spanned 43 meaningful years. What started as an attempt to meet the then-requirement to join the Shrine ultimately led Brother Meadows to discover his true Masonic home in the Scottish Rite, where he found purpose, friendship, and lifelong service.
Brother Meadows’ path in Masonry began at Zion Lodge No. 81, the same lodge where his father, Lynwood Meadows, and all three of his brothers were raised. Of the four, only Bobby and his youngest brother, Brent Meadows, went on to join the Scottish Rite—an experience that deepened their bond in ways neither could have predicted. That shared commitment took on a special family significance when Brent eventually became Director of the Kitchen, a position once held by their uncle, Cliff Meadows, for whom the original downtown kitchen had been named. For Bobby, seeing Brent carry on that legacy remains one of the most meaningful threads connecting his family’s Masonic history.
Of the many degrees and memories that have shaped Brother Meadows’ Scottish Rite experience, the 17th Degree stands out above all. His uncle served as Master of that degree and pulled him into the work early in his Scottish Rite life—a moment of mentorship that set the tone for decades of dedication. In the 43 years that followed, Brother Meadows has missed only two reunions, a testament to his unwavering commitment. In 1993 he became Assistant Director of the Work, and in 2002 he officially assumed the role of Director of the Work, overseeing, coordinating, and organizing reunions for many years. Although he now holds the title Director of the Work Emeritus, his influence continues to shape the valley. Among his many contributions, he helped adapt and rewrite several Scottish Rite degrees to fit lodge-room settings after the departure from the original temple and its stage—a project that ensured the degrees could continue to be exemplified with dignity, clarity, and impact.
Brother Meadows often speaks of how the Scottish Rite has molded him personally. The teachings, he says, have helped him become a better man, and the reunions continually offer “new” lessons—moments of rediscovery in familiar ritual that reinforce his values. As he puts it, there is always another “aha” moment waiting for the attentive Mason.
Professionally, Brother Meadows devoted his career to the United States military community. He retired from Cherry Point FRC East, where he worked in the overhaul and maintenance of aircraft and aircraft components for both the Marine Corps and the Navy. He ultimately managed a $250 million inventory of spare parts—a responsibility that earned him significant recognition, including the Hammer Award from Vice President Al Gore for innovative inventory control measures.
His early service to the nation began decades before, during his time in the United States Air Force from 1967–1972, when he was stationed in Greece and Spain. Although he traveled extensively, one regret remained: he never managed to visit England. Today, England is at the top of his travel wish list. Another highlight of his travels was his 2022 journey to Israel, which he made with his brother, a Methodist minister—an experience he deeply cherished and hopes to repeat someday.
A man of faith as well as fraternity, Brother Meadows has spent 20 years as a Lay Speaker and Life Speaker in the Methodist Church, sharing messages of hope, scripture, and service. His favorite scripture—and guiding principle—is John 1:1: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” The power of that passage centers him and has shaped his approach to leadership both inside and outside the Lodge.
Brother Meadows’ commitment to Masonry extends far beyond the Scottish Rite. His service includes roles such as Past Master of Zion Lodge No. 81 (1993), Past Master of Lux Libertas No. 772 (2022), Treasurer of Distinction and Secretary of Distinction in Zion No. 81, Assistant Secretary of Zion No. 81, Secretary of Lux Libertas No. 772, membership in Royal White Heart No. 2, and honorary memberships in Mt. Vernon No. 359 and Grantham No. 724. He is also a Past Commander and Past President of National Sojourners Chapter No. 329. Within the Scottish Rite, he is proud to be an endowed member, ensuring his legacy of support will continue for generations.
Outside of Masonry, he enjoys golf, time with his church community, and family life. Bobby has been married for 19 years to Sharon Johnston, and together they share a blended family of four children and six grandchildren. When he’s not worshipping, or working within the fraternity, you’re likely to find him at his favorite local spot—Patrons Mexican Restaurant in Havelock, North Carolina.
For those considering joining the Scottish Rite, Brother Meadows offers simple but honest advice: “You get out of it what you put into it. If you don’t attend the meetings and reunions, you’ll become just another dues-paying member.” What he values most is the fellowship—seeing familiar faces at each reunion and knowing the bonds formed there endure.
When asked how he hopes to be remembered, Brother Meadows’ answer reflects the humility of a true Mason: “As somebody anyone can come up to and talk to. Don’t look at me as someone special because of the color of my hat. What matters most is the relationships we build with each other.”
And indeed, that is exactly how he is remembered—by the relationships he has nurtured, the work he has upheld, and the example he continues to set for all Scottish Rite Masons.
