Rufus Walter Mason of Charlotte, North Carolina, peacefully departed this earthly life on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at the Sherwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center – Charlotte location.  He was born on March 8,1945, to the late Rufus "Jack" Mason and Emma Bunch Mason in Mecklenburg County.   He was preceded in death by his two brothers, Ben and William.

Rufus received his formal education in the Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, graduating from York Road High School.

At an early age Rufus joined the O'Zion AME Zion Church and remained a faithful member until his health would no longer allow.  He was a member of the Trustee Board, Mass Choir and the Men's Choir.

Rufus was employed with and retired from the Scott Drug Company after 42 years of service and then went to work for the CVS Company for 12 years in loss prevention.

In his spare time, he loved to fish, work on cars, do landscaping, take care of animals and collect cars.  His car collection included a 1958 metallic blue Chevy Impala, and a 1972 Dodge Charger.  He was an avid drag racing fan; on many weekends, you could find Rufus and Shirley at the Shuffletown Dragway.  "Rufus would watch while Shirley raced."

Rufus discovered he was gifted in music at an early age by playing the guitar.   This love for music continued throughout his lifetime.  His favorite artists included Howlin Wolf, BB King and Rev.  F. C. Barnes.  He and his cousins, Jimmy Harris and Raymond Mason, even formed a band that traveled throughout North Carolina.  They were quite a group!  He would also play at the church.  He named his favorite guitar, "Lucille."

Rufus was a very giving person and would help anyone in need.  He loved having fun and spending time with family and friends.  Rufus' legacy of love and dedication to his family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He'll be remembered by his kind spirit and how he enriched the lives of those around him.

Rest in Peace, Rufus.   You will be deeply missed and forever remembered!

Left to fondly cherish his memory are his wife of 58 ½ years, Mrs. Shirley Gabriel Mason (Sweeda); one daughter, Ms. Lisa Nash (Wendell) of Huntersville, NC; one granddaughter, Ms. Ashley Nash of Fayetteville, NC; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.