Gerald L. "Jerry" Mason

1946 - 2021

Gerald L. "Jerry" Mason, born 1946, died March 12, 2021 in Williamsburg, Virginia from complications of COVID-19. Born in Manhattan (Inwood), Jerry grew up between NYC and Farmingdale, NY. He earned a BA from Fordham University, served honorably in the US Army during the Vietnam War, and later received an MBA from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, UK. Over the course of his lifelong foreign service career, Jerry lived and worked in more than ten locations across four continents. A gifted linguist, Jerry would often read foreign language dictionaries front to back, simply for fun. He was a hard-working and absolutely brilliant man who would nevertheless enjoy the silliest, most banal TV shows. Despite a gruff and intimidating exterior, Jerry never failed to show kindness in even the smallest interactions. He never lost his sense of wonder about the world as he moved through it. His sharp mind, integrity, and grace toward others are sorely missed. Survived by wife Kimiko Isobe, children Akira, Mika, and Kenji Mason, son-in-law Travis Hallenbeck, grandchildren Rumiko and Reika, and sister Susan Mason Donovan. He was the son of Gerald V. Mason and Teresa Ann Watkins. In light of pandemic circumstances, there is no public funeral. Jerry will be interred in Calverton National Cemetery in New York. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to ChildFund International, work for peace, and/or enjoy a vanilla milkshake. Bucktrout Funeral Home has assisted with arrangements.