LAURINBURG — Tears fell at American Legion Post 50 when members of Masonic Ledge No. 305 gathered to honor one of its long-time members on Wednesday.
Bill Riggins, who is approaching his 63rd year as a member of the Masonic Lodge, was presented with the 60-year Award consisting of a pin and certificate.
“It took us a while to make it happen, but we appreciate his service to the community over the years,” said Jason Butler, the worshipful master of the local Masonic Lodge.
Community has certainly been the cornerstone for Riggins’ life in Scotland County. In addition to his membership with the Masonic Lodge, he has also been a member of the Shriners and one of the founders of the local Optimist Club.
“Bill has been heavily active with the Shriners for years,” Butler said. “He just has a deep love for the community.”
Those thoughts were shared by Paul Tate, a member of Masonic Lodge No. 305 and district deputy grand master of Masonic District No. 21 representing the Laurinburg, Southern Pines, Aberdeen, Hamlet, Rockingham, Robbins, Carthage and Raeford lodges.
“He is without doubt the finest example of Masonry, who lives by the creed, ‘Make a Good Man Better’ through service for all,” Tate said.
Riggins — who was initiated into the Masonic Lodge on July 10, 1956, and became a Master Mason on Aug. 28, 1956 — said he was unprepared for what took place on Wednesday.
“They really threw me and brought tears to my eyes — which happens when you get to my age,” he said. “They were gracious enough to recognize me; it was a great honor.”
Riggins added that, over the years with the Masonic Lodge, one accomplishment stands out above the rest.
“I was an original member of the building committee just three years into my membership,” he said. “We were meeting above a bank in Gibson at the time, and we had grand plans for building our own facility.
“Our building (on Atkinson Street in Laurinburg) is one of the highlights of my time with the Masonic Lodge,” Riggins added.
There is, however, another highlight for Riggins that fills him with pride.
“One of the proudest things for me is to see my son, Ronnie, follow in my footsteps with the Optimist Club,” he said. “He took over the plate sale fundraiser from me and didn’t miss a beat.
“I’m just very grateful,” Riggins concluded.
W. Curt Vincent can be reached at 910-506-3023 or [email protected].