James Irvin Mason Sr.

James Irvin Mason Sr., son of Julius Irvin and Patsy Delia Mason, lovingly known as Jim and "Papa", passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, at the age of 92. Born on September 11, 1933, in Albany, Georgia, Jim lived a long and faithful life marked by devotion first to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ second to his family, his church, and country through United States Navy.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife Helen, his cherished "Honey", for 63 beautiful years. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love, faith, and partnership. Whether square dancing hand-in-hand with the tanglefoots square dance club, traveling the country in their camper, or simply sitting together in quiet companionship, their love story was an inspiration to all who knew them.

He was a devoted father to his three sons: Jimmy and his wife Jeannie; Bill and his wife Angie; and Scott and his wife Becky. Jim led his family not only with words, but with steady example - through integrity, humility, and unwavering faith.

Papa's greatest joy was his growing family. He was a proud grandfather to Kaitlin; James and his wife Isabella; Glen; Stephanie and her husband Luke; Brice; Jacob and his wife Alexandra; Graham; Elizabeth; and Aaron. He was also blessed to be a great-grandfather to sweet Daisy. He treasured time spent fishing and gardening with his grandchildren, passing down not only practical skills but also wisdom, patience, and love. He never missed an opportunity to tell each of them how much he loved them and how proud he was of them.

A faithful follower of Jesus Christ, Jim served his church and community with a humble heart. He sang joyfully in the church choir and lived his faith daily through acts of kindness and service. He was known as a true servant - always ready to lend a hand, offer encouragement, or share a warm meal.

Jim loved gathering friends and family around the table. His spaghetti and famous catfish stew with hush puppies were staples at family get-togethers, where laughter was plentiful and everyone left with a full heart and a full stomach.

He found happiness in life's simple pleasures: casting a fishing line into still waters, tending a garden, traveling the open road in the camper with Helen, and dancing beside his bride. His life was rich not in possessions, but in relationships, faith, and love.

James Irvin Mason Sr. leaves behind a legacy of devotion, generosity, and steadfast faith. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing he has heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

His love will continue to live on in every story shared, every recipe prepared, every hymn sung, and every "I love you" spoken in his memory.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at Riverland Hills Baptist Church, 201 Lake Murray Blvd, Irmo, SC 29063. A visitation will follow the service in the atrium.

In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made to the Riverland Hills Baptist Church benevolence fund.