James Edward Mason, age 77, passed away peacefully after a brief illness with his family by his side on March 24, 2022.

Born August 30,1944 in Gaston County to the late William Everette and Pearl Mae Neal Mason, James grew up in Jenkin Heights, where he began his life-long love of being on a ballfield. James graduated from Tryon High School, where he was MVP of the baseball team, and soon after served in the U.S. Army. James was employed by Norwesco and after retiring began working on small engines. He played softball with several teams through the years and continued to coach for many more years after hanging up his cleats.

James was known for his sense of humor and kindness. He was an avid sports fan including a fanatical love of the Tennessee Lady Vols. James was an obsessive sports memorabilia collector and possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of sports statistics, trivia, and oldies music. He loved spending time with his family and most of all being Pawpaw to Elliott. He and his wife also enjoyed camping for many years at Daniel Boone Campground.

Left to cherish his memory; high-school sweetheart and wife of 56 years, Lenita Hastings Mason, daughters; Gwen Mason, Linda Twardos and husband Joseph and Grandson, apple of his eye and greatest blessing, Elliott James Twardos. Brothers-in-law; Calvin Hastings and wife Terresa, Donald Hastings and Frank Plichta. Daughter's In-laws and special caregiver Charlene Blackburn and husband Brian. Brother Charles Mason and wife Ann, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by sisters; Diane Mason and Annie Mae Jackson; brothers William "Bud" Mason and Robert Wayne Mason and his beloved four-legged companion Chico.

Graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, March 27th at Hephzibah ARP Church, where James was a member for over 56 years. The family will receive friends after the service.

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com