John W. Mason Jr.

Saturday, July 12, 2008

GAINESVILLE, Fl. - John W. Mason Jr., died Sunday, July 6, 2008, after complications stemming from a brain aneurism.

Born on April 14, 1938 in Sikeston, he was the third of four children born to John W. Mason and Eula Cline Mason. John grew up in Sikeston and graduated from Sikeston High School in 1956. Although he grew up in Sikeston he has been a long time resident of Jacksonville, Fl. His life was shared with his wife, the former Martha Jean Holloway, also of Sikeston, whom he married on Oct. 24, 1959. He served in the U.S. Navy and after a 26 year career he retired as a Mater Chief Petty Officer (MCPO) and had been the recipient of several awards throughout his career including the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Meritorious Unit Commendation, and the Navy Efficiency Award. Upon his retirement his service to the Navy was extended through private contracting work then in 1998 he went to work for the IRS and retired in 2003. He was a passionate Cardinals fan who also enjoyed fishing, traveling and being with his family.

His parents, one brother David Ronald Mason and his son Richard Alan Mason precede John in death. Surviving are his wife of 48 years, Martha J. Mason; his son Jon Mason and wife, Karen; his son Todd Mason; his daughter Tammy Buttrill and husband Bill; and four grandchildren: Victoria Mason, Connor Mason; Chelsea Buttrill, and Shana Buttrill, all of Jacksonville; his sister Norma Jean Corbin and husband, Eugene of Burns, Tn.; his brother Ben Mason and wife, Lavonne of Houston, Texas; his brother in law Bill Holloway and wife, Sondra of Popular Bluff; his sister in law Sandy Graham and husband, Pete of Peoria, Ill.; and 12 nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are being provided by National Cremation. Services are to be held at a later, as yet to be determined, date pending completion of the Jacksonville VA Cemetery.

The family would like to thank all who offered their help, love, support and prayers over the past several weeks. Your support has truly helped us in our greatest time of need. We would also like to send special thanks to Haven Hospice. The dedicated and caring staff was an invaluable resource that we are grateful to have had. Hospice is a wonderful organization.

A true gentleman who was taken too soon and will be missed. We love you.

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Memorials may be made to:

Haven Hospice

4200 NW 90th Blvd

Gainesville, FL 32606

Paid obiturary