In Remembrance: John Minott
Brother John Minott, 74, a longtime tour guide at the Masonic Temple, sadly passed away on Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. John brought the Masonic Temple to life for visitors, both local and international, for over 30 years as a skilled tour guide. Known for his vast knowledge of Masonic history and the Temple building, John’s quick wit and fantastic sense of humor endeared him to so many people, from visitors to colleagues to fellow Masons. He prided himself on giving special Grand Lodge dignitary tours from around the world, especially French speaking tours, since he was fluent in French.
John earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Stanford University and a master’s degree in international studies from Oregon State University. Previously, he worked in the archives at the University of Oregon. He was a Mason for 30 years and a member of Lodge No. 2.
When he wasn’t giving tours, John enjoyed reading an array of subjects, from anthropology and history to English mysteries. He will be sorely missed. A memorial service for John is planned for April. A social media post about John’s passing has generated more than 140 comments and thoughtful memories.
Below are some reflections about John from those who knew him well:
“Brother John exemplified the maxim ‘A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.’ He shared the light of knowledge with everyone he interacted with in life. His brilliance lives on through his wit and witticism, delivering lessons of history in a kind way. The depths of his friendship and thoughtfulness could be felt in our conversations. As he has risen to the ultimate reward in heaven with God, we will remember him in a gentle way and will carry the torch of knowledge he has given us. Farwell my dear brother, friend and mentor.”
“John was a wonderful character and a great ambassador for the fraternity,” said Brother Lawrence J. Hubert, Jr., PM, Lodge No. 2. “I enjoyed him incredibly as did a lot of the older guys who have been around for a while. A couple of us would always sit around and tell stories about the fraternity. John was a big history buff and a wealth of knowledge. He was a joy to be around.”
“Brother John will be missed for so many reasons,” said Brother Edward J. Stumm, Howell Lodge No. 405. “I just saw him at Unity Day, and we exchanged our usual greetings. We have lost a good brother, employee, tour guide and friend. A true ‘Mason’s Mason.’ Years ago, when my family took a tour of the Temple, I made sure we got Bro. John to be our guide, just to hear his comments. I loved to hear his voice. The next time I am in the Temple, it sure will be different not seeing Bro. John.”
“John was a great tour guide and Mason,” said Brother Nicholas Vettese, PM, St. John’s Lodge No. 115. “His tours would be filled with humor as well as making the tours personal to the guests and brothers alike. John will be missed. Rest in peace my brother.”
“I’ve always loved taking friends, prospective members and my students at Temple University for tours with John,” said Brother Michael J. Ernst, PM, University Lodge No. 51. “He was a combination of erudite and humorous. Over the years, we had dozens of conversations about the architecture and décor of the building, especially in relation to the Islamic motifs in Oriental Hall and the Commander’s chair in Gothic Hall. He was a wonderful person, a true scholar and a fixture of the Masonic Temple. Freemasonry in Philadelphia won’t be the same without him.”
“John was a great influence on me when I volunteered and led tours at the Temple 15 years ago,” said Brother Justin Detwiler, Kingston Lodge No. 395, an historic preservation architect. “He was a true student of history, and I will always remember our discussions about architecture and Masonic history. He will be missed.”
Carly Sewell, archivist, said, “John was a kind and jovial soul who always lit up a space. I loved our random conversations in the lunchroom.”
John Hopkins, maintenance/tour guide, said, “Your legacy endures. As a guide you have educated so many, and your friendly humor and stories will fill this building always!”
Brother Steven Kessler, William Elkins Lodge No. 271, maintenance supervisor, said there are “no words” to describe how much John meant to the staff.
“He was a mentor to all of us with 32 years of being with the Masonic Temple alone, and he had a vast amount of knowledge about our building’s history and our fraternity, which always amazed me,” Steven said.
“You were always willing to share and help teach all of us about history, so we could learn and grow. I am deeply saddened by your loss. You will always be remembered for the impact you had on all of us.”
News Clips About the Masonic Temple Featuring John Minott:
WHYY: The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia – WHYY
Good Day Uncut (Fox 29): Good Day Uncut: Philadelphia Masonic Temple | FOX 29 Philadelphia
