Ronald MASON

1930 - 2022

MASON, Ronald William "Ronnie" Sr. 92, of Plant City, FL, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2022. Ronnie was born on August 14, 1930, to Orbie and Bernice Mason in Tampa. He attended Hillsborough High School, where he played both football and basketball before graduating in 1949. In 1951, he began a long and cherished career with Tampa Fire Rescue, finishing his service as Tampa's Fire Chief. Later, Ronnie was elected to Tampa City Council, where he also served as Chairman. Along the way, he owned and operated several successful local businesses, including Mason Motors, Mason Sporting Goods, and Americare Ambulance Service, that served and supported his community and beyond through the years. Americare continues to serve Hillsborough County. In 1950, Ronnie married his high school sweetheart, and love of his life, Betty Sue Camp. Ronnie and Betty Sue went on to have four children, Ronald William, Jr., Susan Mason Raburn, Julie Mason Otte, and James Douglas. They were married for 72 years. Ronnie also held multiple leadership positions at Seminole Heights United Methodist Church, where he and Betty Sue were members for nearly 70 years. Ronnie loved serving his community by volunteering his time and talents in many ways through multiple organizations, including coaching and serving as league president for North Seminole Little League. Ronnie was a man of principle and unwavering conviction. He exemplified unconditional love and generosity through his support and service to others. His relationship with Christ was evident in the way he lived. Because of those he loved, and the many lives he touched, Ronnie would be the first to tell you he was incredibly blessed. He will not be forgotten. Ronnie was preceded in death by parents, Orbie and Bernice Mason; sisters, Nancy Burnett and Jeanne Combs; and son, Ronald William, Jr. Ronnie is survived by his wife of 72 years, Betty Sue; children, Susan Raburn (Buddy), Julie Otte (Bill), Doug (Jill); siblings, Steve Mason (Susan) and Brenda Piché (Jim); He had 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. He also had many loving grandchildren-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 7, at 4 pm at Seminole Heights United Methodist Church, 6111 N. Central Avenue, Tampa, where the family will receive friends beginning at 3 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Metropolitan Ministries of Tampa at https://www.metromin.org/. Well done, good and faithful servant! Come and share your Master's happiness! - Matthew 25:23