Patricia Mason

Patricia “Patte” M. Mason, of Punta Gorda, passed away September 16, 2016.  The world lost a true original that day.  She was born March 1, 1926 in Alton, IL to Albert and Helen Murphy.  She attended the University of Maryland, where she was a cheerleader and majored in early childhood education.  It was there she met a football player named Robert Crosland.  They were married in 1947, lived in Gainesville, FL for many years and then moved to Punta Gorda in 1959.

Patte was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Punta Gorda for 50 years.  She taught 3-year old Sunday School and VBS, was a member of the Koinonia group and head usher for many years.  Patte was the first full-time female PE teacher and the first female licensed pilot in Charlotte County.  She was an avid water-skier and played tennis well into her 70’s.  She was the no. 2 ranked female tennis player in FL in the 65+ age group.  She will be remembered for her love of children, her athleticism, her wonderful sense of humor, and for just being so darn fun to be with!

She is preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Richard Murphy, and her son, Richard “Dickey” Crosland.  She is survived by her husband, Donald G. Mason, her children, Kim Crosland, Keri Crosland, Keli Crosland, Brian Crosland (Lezlie) and Kae Ferner (Charles), ten grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 1, 2016 at the First United Methodist Church of Punta Gorda.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Faith Promise Missions through the First United Methodist Church.

Arrangements are being handled by Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home in Punta Gorda.