Donald Alonzo Mason

Born in Corsicana, Texas, February 3, 1918, his family moved to Norphlet in 1925 during the height of the oil boom. He often recounted exciting stories of the early days and his younger days growing up in the boom town environment.

Awarded the Bronze Star Medal, he proudly served in the U.S. Air Force Strategic Command. His overseas deployment took him to Pearl Harbor and Guam before returning home. Upon his discharge he returned to Norphlet and began his long and successful career as an independent oil producer. The oilfield was a passion he enjoyed for the remainder of his life. Throughout his career, he was recognized as a man of honor and integrity and his work ethic was second to none. However, he was never too busy to help a fellow friend or neighbor.

He served for 27 years on the Norphlet City Council and was a member of First Baptist Church in Norphlet for 78 years, where he served as a deacon and was the church treasurer for 40 years.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Minnie Mason; and a sister, Marjorie Fielden.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Oma Mason of Norphlet; children and spouses, Donna and Lawrence Harrison of Norphlet, Steve and Mary Mason of Norphlet, and Tim and Rhonda Mason of Little Rock; eight grandchildren; sixteen great grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Sunday, June 19, 2011, at Young’s.

Funeral services to honor his life will be held 2:00 p.m. Monday, June 20, 2011, at First Baptist Church of Norphlet with Rev. Gerald Perry and Bro. Doug Wills officiating. A concluding service with military honors will be held at Arlington Memorial Park under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Norphlet, P.O. Box 10, Norphlet, AR 71759.

An online guest registry will be available at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.