Joseph Calvin Mason, Jr

On September 4, 1962, Joseph Calvin Mason, Jr., started his earthly journey at Fort McClellan, Alabama in the loving arms of his parents, Vera Mason and the late Joseph Mason, Sr. At an early age, he was baptized and joined the Murray Temple CME Church in Anniston, Alabama, where he remained a member until his passing. Joseph, affectionately known as Joey to some and JoJo to others, was the eldest of four children. Joey lived a full life with Down Syndrome, which never defined him, but contributed to his unique and joyful spirit. He was educated in the Lawton, Oklahoma school system and later attended the Children's Development Center in Anniston, Alabama. Joey's love for comic books, wrestling and western movies kept him engaged for hours. He was a dedicated member of the City of Anniston's Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Program for over 30 years. While in the TR Program, he formed lasting bonds and cherished friendships that enriched his life immeasurably. Joey was a competitive athlete. He was a member of the Anniston Allstars Adult Basketball Team. Joey competed in the Special Olympics where he was honored as a state champion in Bowling. Joey had a love for people that was evident in his contagious smile and infectious laughter that lit up any room he entered. On Saturday, April 20, 2024, Joey answered the master's call and was reunited with his father, SFC (Ret) Joseph Mason, Sr., his grandparents, James and Thelma Curry, Tom Mason and Louise Mason-Gaile, his aunt, Ollie Mae McClellan. Joey's memories will forever be cherished by his mother, Vera Mason of Anniston, Alabama; his sisters, Karen (Gordon) Mason of Anniston, Alabama and Carol (Anthony) Kimble of Oxford; his brother, CSM (Ret) Ronald A. (MSG (Ret) Joanna) Mason of Savannah, Georgia; his special nieces, Elana (Shenita) Goodwin of Phenix City, Alabama, Keiuna Mason-Jones of Oxford, Alabama, Elaija Mason of Pell City, Alabama and Kimera Mason of El Paso, Texas; his special nephews, Justin Mason of Anniston, Alabama, Ja'Kolbe McClendon and Demontre' McClendon, both of Oxford, Alabama, Cayman Mason of Monroe, Louisiana, Jayden Mason of Savannah, Georgia, and Querriun Mason of Phenix City, Alabama; special cousins, Gayle McClellan and Sean McClellan, both of Anniston, and James McClellan of Antioch, Tennessee; his bonus sister, Gwen Reed of Anniston, Alabama, and a host of nieces, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, other family members and friends. Joey's passing has left a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy of joy and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Tributes

Joseph Calvin Mason, Jr

September 4, 1962 - April 20, 2024