Jerlen T (Jt) Mason Sr.

He was born on September 8, 1925 in Mineral Wells to Rev. C.H. Mason and Alpha Mason.

Jerlen was preceded in death by his three sisters and one brother.

Survivors include his wife of 70 years, Billie Ruth Newsome who he married on May 10, 1946. Other survivors include daughter, Pamela Tweedy and husband Jim; son, Jerlen Mason Jr. and wife Terri; grandchildren, Russell Richardson, Ginger Thompson, Jarrod Mason, and Tiffany Bowlware; and nine great-grandchildren.

He was a Godly example of a loving, caring and unselfish husband, father, and grandfather. He was a faithful founding member of the Rose Heights Church of God where he served in many capacities for more than 50 years. JT enjoyed working behind the scenes supporting children’s ministries, helping maintain facilities, and promoting mission projects at home and abroad.

He blessed many people with his God given art and musical talents. He was an accomplished artist who could paint and draw. He sang and played multiple musical instruments in church services. JT never turned down anyone needing help and he knew the meaning of being a friend. His great sense of humor always made others around him laugh.

A World War II volunteer, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946 with assignment in the South Pacific. A resident of Tyler since 1946, he retired from Howe Baker Engineering. He possessed a unique ability to fix, repair, and build anything including their first home in Tyler. Other interests included bowling, President of Tyler Art League, member of Smith County Woodworkers Club, and ham radio enthusiast.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Women’s Rehabilitation Center at dreamcenterak.org, Alaska Dream Center, 8117 E. New Hope Street., Palmer, Alaska 99645.

Services are scheduled for 11:00am, Saturday, August 6, 2016 in the chapel of Lloyd James Funeral Home with Pastor Doug Anderson and Gary Oglesby officiating.

Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00pm, Friday, August 5, 2016 at Lloyd James Funeral Home.