James "JIM" Mason

James "Jim" Hays Mason, 75, of El Dorado, Arkansas, passed from this world into the arms of Jesus, on November 9th, 2023. He was born on May 13, 1948, in El Dorado, Arkansas. Jim was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jim was one of a kind. He had a sweet and kind personality, always thoughtful and giving. He had a deep love for fishing and enjoyed taking others along for the experience. He also had a strong faith in the Lord and cherished his country, his wife, and his family. Jim proudly served in the United States Navy. He was a disabled Veteran and served in Vietnam. He received the National Defense Service Medal and Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Star.

In his professional life, Jim had a successful career that spanned multiple industries. He worked for companies such as the Rock Island Railroad, Lockheed Martin, BEI, Loral Vault, Cooper Tire and American Steel. Working as a quality inspector for over 35 years, Jim was a hardworking individual who made significant contributions in his field.

Outside of work, Jim was an avid bowler and had a passion for fishing and woodworking. He found joy in spending time by the water, casting his line, and appreciating the tranquility of nature. Woodworking allowed him to unleash his creativity and create beautiful pieces with his hands.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Muriel and Joe Sturgis, Alfred and Betty Mason, one daughter, Melissa Slaughter Goodwin along with a sister, Frances Borden.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Diana Rae Mason, his brothers; Dennis Mason (Cindy), Ricky Nalls (Sherrie), Tom Johnson (Laura), and his sisters; Nelda Tyler, Pam Priest (Robert), Johnnye Sue Hunter (Willis), Cathy Oden, Donna Hays, daughters; Tammie Peppers (John), Michelle Chambers (Doug), and Trayc Parker (Eddie), a son-in-law, Eric Goodwin, grandchildren; Kody Jackson (Amanda), Shevy Thompson (Josh), Kaely Skelton (Travis), Christy Green (Tom), Ashley Britton, David Chambers, Travis Chambers (Tanesha), Evan Parker, Jonah Parker (Jada), Gabriel Parker, Dustin Goodwin (Jennifer), Lauren Greer (Matt), and 26 great grandchildren, a beloved aunt, Helen Bomar, special friends, Keith Jackson and Sandi Senock, special caregivers, Dr. David Henderson, LPN Kelli, Therapist Mary, CNA Sherry, LPN Alejandra, CNA "Momma" Kay, LPN Chandie, and a number of cousins, nieces and nephews that he loved and that cared for him.

Visitation will be Thursday, November 16th, from 6-8 p.m. and funeral service will be held on Friday, November 17th at 10 a.m., both to be held at Bible Baptist Church, located at 2165 Smackover Hwy, El Dorado, AR 71730 with Dr. J.D.Weido officiating. Following the service Jim will be laid to rest at Old Lapile Cemetery in Huttig, AR.

Memorials may be made to Bible Baptist Church or UCAPS. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the medical staff and case managers of Little Rock VA Hospital, the medical staff at Medical Center of South Arkansas, CHI St. Vincent's of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Mena Regional Health Systems, and Greenwood Cottages of Homewood.

Jim's memory will forever be cherished by his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to his country and loved ones. May he rest in eternal peace.

Funeral Service will be streamed here at https://www.youtube.com/live/Yn4w4tPxnk8?si=bnuJOSuqOw7g1-T8 .

Condolences may be expressed at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.