https://boxcast.tv/view/william-franklin-mason-jr-isp6apnlbt5itx4gh8mm

"If the above URL isn't working, try copying and pasting it into your web browser."

Mr. William Franklin Mason Jr. 76 of Charlotte, NC., departed this life on Friday, March 31, 2023 at Atrium University.

On Friday, March 31, 2023, at 6:49 p.m., William F. Mason, Jr., beloved brother, unexpectedly entered his eternal home peacefully at Atrium University Hospital at the age of 76.

William, affectionately called "Bill" by loved ones and friends, was born on March 1, 1947, in Charlotte, North Carolina to the late Reverend William Franklin Mason, Sr. and the late Thelma Moore Mason.  At the age of three, Bill developed polio and meningitis which affected his hearing and postural balance. With limited mobility, he was enrolled in the Charlotte Mecklenburg School System until the physical demands became too difficult for him. At the age of eleven, Bill was transferred and enrolled in O'Berry Center in Goldsboro, NC, a training facility to teach self-help skills and productive vocations for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

At O'Berry Center, Bill continued his education and vocational skills.  He was at O'Berry for fifty-five years.  On the campus of O'Berry Center, Mason worked various jobs, campus hotel, wood working shops and ground maintenance.  His supervisors described him as a hard worker dedicated to getting the job completed in a timely manner. He was also described as friendly, helpful and very observant of others and his environment. He assisted staff by monitoring his co-workers and would often assist his co-workers with completing their jobs as well.

Mason enjoyed activities such as air hockey, walking and riding on golf carts on the O'Berry Center campus.  When not working, he loved all holiday events held on campus. Mason participated in Special Olympics yearly.  He also loved dressing up for church on Sunday morning and participating in the worship services at O'Berry Center.

In 2013, Mr. Mason's family made the decision to bring him back to Charlotte to enjoy his golden years at ResCare/Enoch Group Home. Before the pandemic, Mr. Mason enjoyed going to Life Span Inc., participating in horticulture activities; he always enjoyed working with his hands.  He also helped to deliver Friendship Trays to seniors.  On various Sundays, the staff would take Mr. Mason to various local churches in the area.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Mason was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents; sister, Evelina M. Robinson; brother, Melvin E. Mason; two brothers-in-law, Sam E. Townsend, Willie T. Robinson, Sr.; niece, Tarolyn P. Mason; and nephew, Antonio M. Townsend.

He leaves to celebrate his life and share beautiful memories with three devoted and loving sisters, Jean M. Chisholm, Thelma M. Townsend and Laura A. Mason, all of Charlotte, NC; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.