Joe E. Mason

Joe “Jay” E. Mason, of Wakefield, Kansas, passed away on January 8, 2026, at the age of 89.

He was born on May 23, 1936, in Clay Center, Kansas, the son of Ernest and Marion (Williams) Mason.

Jay attended Kansas State University and proudly served his country in the Army National Guard. He later became the owner and operator of Mason Petroleum Co., Inc., taking over the family business from his father. For generations in the community, many flat tires were repaired and countless oil changes were done at “the station on the hill.”

Jay was active in his community, serving on the Wakefield City Council, and was a member of both the Elks Lodge and the Masonic Lodge. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, and treasured the time spent fishing with his grandchildren. Jay and Marilyn were often found on Friday nights at the Elks Lodge in Clay Center, Kansas, dancing the night away.

Jay is survived by his wife of 69 years, Marilyn (Gustin) Mason, of Wakefield, Kansas; a son, Brad Mason, of Wakefield, Kansas; and a daughter, Brenda Sherwood, of Kansas City, Missouri. Also surviving Jay are his grandchildren, Morgan and Joel Mason, and Ethan and Katie Sherwood; and his former daughter-in-law, Jeri Mason.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Cynthia Turner; and his son-in-law, Ed Sherwood.

Further details regarding services and arrangements will be announced at a later time.