James Mason

He was born July 30th, 1952, in Manhattan, to the late Jean Kennedy Mason and Harold Mason. After completing his undergraduate at Duke University, he began his career at WTVD-TV in Durham, where he started as a production assistant before quickly becoming the youngest station manager in the network’s history. Later, he moved back to New York to pursue his MBA at Columbia University before beginning his long career as an investment banker specializing in the entertainment industry. He advised on some of the most significant corporate transformations of his era, yet those who knew him spoke less about the deals he closed and more about his character: his refusal to compromise principle for profit, his capacity to see people clearly, and his love of storytelling—particularly when it came to describing his many nights dancing to disco music at Studio 54, the celebrities he encountered during his life, and the shenanigans he got up to during his childhood in New York City.

He was an ardent advocate for animal rescue, a commitment that reflected both his compassion and his sense of responsibility. He had a strong bond with animals, particularly dogs. After he retired to North Raleigh, his daily ritual became walking his beloved dog, Lucy, with his many friends in the neighborhood.

James Mason was a beloved father and husband. He was preceded in death by Nan S. Mason, his adored wife whose tragic early passing weighed heavily on him.

He is survived by his daughter Caroline E. Mason, and his two sons, James C. and Everett F. Mason.

A funeral service will be held on September 26, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, 1701 East Millbrook Road, Raleigh, North Carolina. In a gesture that speaks to Mr. Mason's character and warmth, an ice cream social will follow the service, allowing those whose lives he touched to gather and share memories over one of his favorite pleasures.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The ASPCA or The Parkinson’s Foundation. Information on how to donate is listed below under "donations".