I am so blessed to have known Masako over the past few years.  We served on the Southern Automotive Women's Forum Board together and I am a better person for having known her.  I am so sorry for this loss and you will be in my prayers as you navigate through this difficult time.  The difference she made in this world will be a great legacy and she will be fondly remembered.

One of the best things that can be said about someone is that they made a difference.  Masako made a difference.  Each and every member of her Hino family is better for having had the opportunity to work with her.  I am certain that when you reflect on any interaction that you had with Masako, you will smile.  Regardless of whatever you were going through in your work or your personal life, she had a way of making things seem better.  It was difficult to hear the news of her passing, but we can rest assured that she would want us to carry on as usual.  Rest in peace, Masako.  You will be missed.

-Roger Hurley

I remember the first time I met Boss (Masako-san) at my interview for Hino. She was so kind and nice. I was nervous but her smile helped me to relax. Out of all of the candidates she met with, she chose me. She told me she felt something and thought I would be a great fit for her team. And so we began. Admin became a family. I learned so much about keeping my cool in tense situations. We use to talk about different recipes to try and cool restaurants. I use to copy her "morning" tone every day when I walked into the office. It was sweet and kind. I can say she is the best manager I've ever had. As I sit and think about her now all I can do is smile and laugh. She made tough days easier. I thank you Masako for choosing me and allowing me to be a part of your team.

Kenny

Masako's SMILE would light up a room!  Personally, I'll never forget when I found out that her birthday was February 1st ... because my beloved (late) mom's was February 2nd ... and she reminded me SO much of my mom with the happy and cheerful joy that emanated from her constantly.  And although I didn't work with Masako for too long of a time (at Mazda in California), one could instantly be impressed by her selflessness, respect and consideration for everyone around her.  She was TRULY a special person - and even though we hadn't seen each other in over two decades, reading her Facebook updates about her family or her amazing culinary arts were always enjoyable and uplifting ... Masako was truly a one-of-a-kind "spirit", and even though she isn't with us any more in our human existence, I pray for her soul and for the lives of her family that have been so blessed with her abundance of love and nurturing during her all-too-short time here on Earth.  May her blessed soul forever rest in Eternal Peace, and His strength surround her family during this most difficult time.      

I am terribly saddened to learn of Masako's passing.  As a  fellow Board Member of the Southern Automotive Women's Forum I was fortunate to have experienced her beautiful character.  Her strong yet gentle nature was a notable characteristic that i admired very much.  She contributed greatly to our collective mission and I will miss her fellowship and her friendship.  My sincere condolences to her family and friends during this sad and difficult time.  

I met Masako years ago when I recruited her to join our Southern Automotive Women's Forum (SAWF).  She became a most valued Board Member; but to me - a dear and enduring friend.  She was a kind, caring, sweet, gentle lady, and an inspiring business woman.  Her children were her joy, and her family of utmost importance.  She touched more lives than any of us can know.  I am so saddened at our loss, and pray for peace and comfort to her family and our many shared friends.        

Mrs. Masako was always so warm and inviting and interested in others’ lives. I remember being at the Mayes home for a youth group event one night as a junior in high school, and Mrs. Masako asked me what I thought I might study in college. I shared with her that I wanted to spend time overseas but had no idea what to major in, and that it was a stressful decision. She spent so much time encouraging me and telling me that God would direct my steps. She even recommended looking into majoring in ESL (something I’d never heard of), which is exactly what I did! I’m so grateful for Masako’s example of kindness and genuinely caring for others. Her love for her family was so evident. She is so loved and will be greatly missed. ❤️

OBITUARY

Masako Karube Mayes

February 1, 1962 – August 6, 2018

Collierville Funeral Home

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