George F. Mason

MASON, George Frederick, a long-time resident of Walden, NY passed away August 25, 2011 at the age of 94. He was born May 24, 1917 in Walden, NY to Fred and Ada Mason. George worked at his future in-laws' Ben Franklin Store in Walden before he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in World War II in the Army Ground Force Band in the Asiatic Pacific Theatre of Operations from February 1941 until June 1945. After returning home, George married his sweetheart Virginia Barhydt and went back to work at the family- owned Ben Franklin Store which he ended up running for many years before retiring. In 1981 George and Virginia moved to Montgomery, AL with both their mothers to be near their daughter Brenda Jackson and her family. George and Virginia enjoyed the beaches at Orange Beach as well as cruises to different ports around the world with family and friends. They were members of Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church for nearly 30 years. George and Virginia did everything together and he never left her side except for hospital or rehab stays. George has sorely missed his "bride" since she passed away in 2009. He was always very active with photography, woodworking and oil painting; and was a charter member and Past-President of Golden K Kiwanis Club, VFW Post 96 member and Romar Beach Condo Association board member for many years. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Brenda and Conrad Jackson, grandsons Brian Jackson, Michael Jackson (Erin), Chris Jackson; and great-grandchildren Abby and Kade. The family wishes to express special thanks to Deb Erickson and her staff of caregivers, especially Latonya Jordan, Angela Jordan and Rita Jackson; The Cedars caregivers and Hospice Advantage staff. Pallbearers will be Chris Jackson, Michael Jackson, Brian Jackson, Jimmy Sloan, Garry Wimberly and Kemper Davis. Funeral services will be Tuesday August 30, 2011 at 3:00 PM at Leak- Memory Chapel with Rev. John Schmidt officiating. Burial will follow in Serenity Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church, Montgomery, AL 36117.