Tributes to former mayor and freemason after death at age of 81

Mr Binks – who was known as Jack – died suddenly after suffering a heart attack last Wednesday evening.

A freemason for more than 50 years, Mr Binks, 81, was taken ill while preparing to go in to a meeting at the Integrity Masonic Lodge at Morley.

His eldest son Richard Binks, 53, said of his father: “Masonry was very close to his heart and it is fitting that is where he died.”

Jack Binks was a former leader of Morley Borough Council and served as the council’s last mayor in 1973, before the authority was disbanded.

After local government reorganisation in 1974, Mr Binks became a Conservative councillor on Leeds City Council.

Eventually, he went on to become deputy leader of the council’s Conservative group.

He was made an Honorary Alderman of the City of Leeds and was awarded an MBE for services to the community in the 1990 New Year’s Honours List.

He was also a former chairman of Morley Round Table and Area Nine Round table.

Mr Binks was the fourth generation to enter the family building contractor and funeral director business JW Binks and Sons, which was founded in 1870.

Following his retirement in 1991 the Morley-based business became solely a funeral directors run by son Richard.

His son Richard said: “He was a well-respected man who dedicated his life to his family and to public service.

“He was a man who got things done, gave wise counsel freely to those who asked for it and whose renowned wit stayed sharp to the end of his life.”

His lifelong friend Geoff Stockwell, 81, said: “He was very well read and he was a fine orator.”

Mr Stockwell added: “He was a very friendly person, always good for a funny story and yet he had a very serious side to him and he liked to help people.”

Mr Binks also leaves wife Shirley, another son Martin, 49, two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

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