Joe Sanders

Past Master Biography: Joe V. Sanders (Died 2026) Past Master: Lubbock Lodge No. 1392 District Deputy Grand Master: District 93-A Golden Trowel Recipient: 2008 I. Life & Career Early Life & Military Service Joe attended school in Floydada, Texas. Upon graduation, he left the family farm to answer the call of duty, joining the United States Army. Professional Life After his military service, Joe returned to his education, earning both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education from Texas Tech University. He dedicated his professional life to the next generation, teaching high school English for over 30 years. Service to Others Retirement did not slow him down; rather, it opened a new chapter of service. Joe embarked on a second \"career\" as a builder for Habitat for Humanity. His passion for serving others was well recognized—in October 2013, he received a special award from the Lodge honoring his tireless work for Habitat for Humanity, the South Plains Food Bank, and his support of individual Lodge members. Family & Faith Joe married Joan Collinsworth in 1987. He was a proud member of First United Methodist Church. He is survived by his sister Eulalia Blankenship, his children Cindy and Scott, and a large, loving family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan, and siblings Hansel and Twila. He will be remembered for his sharp wit and his deep passion for helping those in need. II. Masonic Journey Degree Work Initiated (EA): December 12, 1968 — Lubbock No. 1392 Passed (FC): January 20, 1969 — Lubbock No. 1392 Raised (MM): February 21, 1969 — Lubbock No. 1392 Memberships & Awards Lubbock Lodge No. 1392: Endowed Member (Jan 27, 1992) Golden Trowel Award: Received July 16, 2008 Service Awards: 50-Year Service Award (Presented Jan 28, 2019) 25-Year Service Award (Recorded April 11, 2014) Special Recognition: 2013 Award for Community Service (Habitat for Humanity & Food Bank). III. Service Record & Offices Held Brother Sanders served the Craft in two distinct eras: leading the Lodge as Master in the mid-1970s, and returning decades later to serve in various supportive roles and as a District officer. Grand Lodge of Texas Service District Deputy Grand Master (DDGM): District 93-A (2010–2011) Lodge Leadership (Lubbock No. 1392) Worshipful Master: 1975–1976 Senior Warden: 1974–1975 Junior Warden: 1973–1974 Senior Deacon: 1972–1973 Tiler: 2009–2010, 2011–2012 Junior Deacon: 2007–2008 Senior Steward: 2006–2007 Junior Steward: 1976–1977 Esoteric Certifications Class A (3-Year & 1-Year): Held continuously from 2006 to 2017. IV. In Memoriam Brother Joe Sanders passed away on January 5, 2026. Services: Visitation held January 11, 2026. Funeral services held January 12, 2026, at Resthaven’s Abbey Chapel. Masonic Rites: Performed by request.