It is with heavy hearts and sincere sympathy that the Master and Wardens of Dawn of Light Lodge No. 22 announce the passing of our oldest member. On Monday, June 8, 2020, Brother Willie Piece entered into eternal rest leaving a lasting legacy with the members of the Prince Hall Affiliated family.

Worshipful Brother Charles Payton, Sr. recalled Bro. Piece serving during his tenure as Master of the Lodge as a personal counsellor and trusted advisor. Humble, dependable and faithful were words used to describe the kind of mason Bro. Piece was. Worshipful Brother Lee Arthur White, Jr. visited with Bro. Piece during his stay in the nursing home and says that Bro. Piece would always “grip” him.

While Brother Piece never served as Master of his lodge, his personal obligations never waivered. During the sixty plus years of his membership, several Masters appointed him to serve as one of the deacons or chaplain of the lodge. “He was a prayer warrior” Past Master Charles Payton said of Bro. Piece.

Worshipful Master Jeremy Odom stated that “While I have never had the opportunity to sit in lodge with Brother Piece, I can say that Brother Piece was the type of mason that we all should strive to emulate.” Bro. Piece became a Master Mason on February 23, 1959 and has supported the Dawn of Light Lodge over the years. His family fondly remembers how much he loved Dawn of Light and the great care he took in keeping his gloves and apron clean.

Armed with no more than a third grade education, Mr. Piece built his home in Natchitoches rearing ten children, retiring from the City of Natchitoches, and faithfully serving his church for many years up until going into the nursing home. He was also the oldest deacon in New Beulah Baptist Association. His passing has garnered the condolences from members of the Prince Hall family from across the nation.

Dawn of Light Lodge will continue to remember the life and legacy of Mr. Willie Piece for years to come. “I have no doubt in my mind that he loved God, his family, the church and his masonic family” Odom stated of Bro. Piece.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted Robinson Family Mortuary of Pineville. Mr. Piece will lie instate Saturday, June 20th from 9am-11am for a walk thru viewing. Due to COVID-19, there will be no congregating allowed and everyone must wear a face covering. A private homegoing celebration and final masonic rites will be held at 11am for immediate family only. All services will be held at the Abundant Life Church in Natchitoches.