Mr. Thomas Edward Mason Sr., 80, of Chincoteague Island, passed away peacefully at his home on Oct. 18, 2024. He was born on July 22, 1944, in Salisbury, Md., but was a proud lifetime resident and businessman on Chincoteague.
After graduating from Chincoteague High School, Tommy joined the U.S. Coast Guard. As an opportunity arose, he joined his father in the Jones and Mason Gas Station and Garage. Later, he and his wife, Donna, partnered in Mason Seafood, an oyster shucking and seafood business. As times changed, he and his wife began a new business, The Waterside Inn, a motel on the Chincoteague waterfront. Not to rest on his laurels, while still a motel owner, he began a new venture raising and selling aquacultured oysters and clams.
As a businessman, Tommy gradually began a love of roses that developed into an obsession. Mr. Bill Davis, who shared his knowledge, encouraged him in his interest. He was a longtime member of the American Rose Society and became locally famous for his ability to grow the most beautiful roses around. His “recipe” for growing and tending them has been saved so that his legacy will live on.
His love for his family was limitless. He treasured his two grandsons. He tried never to miss a baseball game when they played in middle and high school. Their many accomplishments made him proud every day.
Tommy was a member of Masonic Lodge No. 243 on Chincoteague and an active member of the Union Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Donna Savage Mason; son Thomas Mason Jr., daughter-in-law, Ruthann Mason, all of Chincoteague; and two grandsons, Ryan and Dylan Mason, both of Virginia Beach.
He was predeceased by his brother, Floyd Mason Jr. He is survived by Floyd’s wife, Patty, and their son, Kevin Mason (Jennie). In addition, survivors include his daughter, Michelle Anderson (David), and Patty’s daughter, Jennifer Troutan. Also surviving are the special great-nieces and great-nephews.
For the last couple of years, Tommy has required extra help and consideration from others who are too numerous to mention but whose help was very much appreciated. The family would especially like to thank the Rev. Kevin Eley and the Angler’s Sunday School Class of the Union Baptist Church. Also, he received special care from Mary Green, Rhonda Green, Barbara Walker, and Crystal Benedict.
A funeral service will be held at the Union Baptist Church on Chincoteague Island on Sunday, Oct. 27, at 2 p.m. There will be a viewing one hour prior from 1 to 2 p.m. Interment will be at Downing’s Cemetery in Oak Hall, with refreshments to follow at the Union Baptist Church Activities Building.
Flowers are graciously accepted, or donations may be made to the Union Baptist Church, 6365 Church St., Chincoteague, VA 23336, or to the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 691, Chincoteague, VA 23336, www.CVFC3.com
Services were entrusted to Salyer Funeral Home on Chincoteague Island. Condolences may be made online at www.salyerfh.com
