Stephen L. Mason, Sr. of Florence, MS, passed away at St. Dominic hospital on October 21, 2021, with his children at his bedside. He is no longer in pain or "feeling terrible." A memorial service for him will be at Wright and Ferguson in Flowood, MS on Saturday, November 6, 2021 at 11:30 a.m., services by Brother Mike Flynn with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m.

Steve was born on March 5, 1950, in Chambers County, Alabama. His parents were Bobbie Lee Mason and Fannie Mae (Foster-Mason) Pettus. He had an older brother Mike, and younger sisters Donna and Tina. His sister Donna says he was truly the older brother and made sure all his siblings were taken care of. He also enjoyed playing baseball, basketball, and football during his school years. When he was of age, he started working which set the groundwork of his great work ethic.

After high school, he joined the United States Marine Corp. He was stationed in Okinawa, Japan where he met his wife, Kimiko. After his four-year service, he was honorably discharged with the ranking of Sergeant. He later moved back to the United States and decided to make Mississippi his home. While raising a family consisting of a wife, two kids, and a few animals, he also worked full-time jobs and attended Belhaven College. He graduated in 1981 with a Bachelor of Science.

He decided on a career path in transportation services as an over-the-road driver. He worked many hours to support his family. He sacrificed very little sleep so he could attend his children's ballgames. He even coached a few of his son's baseball teams. He continued to work in the transportation industry until he was admitted to the hospital.

He enjoyed spending time with his family. He would even visit his daughter for lunch or dinner when she lived in Arkansas. He enjoyed NASCAR and Alabama football. He was a "fan at birth" since his Uncle George Mason played for Bama (#74, 1952-54, Paul W. Bryant Museum). Steve was the kind of person that would help others, especially strangers. He would give you his last dollar and do without. He also loved animals. He would always give them "treats" when he wasn't supposed to.

Steve is survived by his wife of 47 years, Kimiko, his daughter, Aimee, his son Stephen (Betty), and his granddaughter, Alayna; brothers, Del Pettus of Alabama, Lee Mason of Mississippi and Richie Mason of Texas; along with many cousins, nieces and nephews. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Bobbie and Fannie Mae, and his brother Mike.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Baptist Children's Village. This is a Christ-centered organization and Steve made sure his family knew God. He also helped others in need. Donations can also be made at any local animal shelter since he loved dogs.