Jimmy Mason

Published 9:59 am Sunday, May 25, 2025

HARRELLSVILLE, NC – James Wilson Mason, known as Jimmy to many, passed away unexpectedly on May 22, 2025 at his home in Harrellsville, North Carolina, at the age of 78.

Born on August 13, 1946, Jimmy’s life was a testament to dedication, love, and community service.

A proud graduate of the last class of Harrellsville High School in 1964, Jimmy went on to earn a degree in Accounting from Wake Forest University. After graduation it was the call of family and tradition that brought him back to Harrellsville, where he took over the family farming operations after the passing of his uncle. It was here that Jimmy found his true calling and never left, dedicating his life to nurturing both the land and the community he cherished.

Jimmy served his country in the National Guard for six years. His dedication to service extended into his community roles, including his work with Chowan University and the Roanoke Chowan Foundation. Jimmy was a member of the NC Farm Bureau and an integral part of the Hertford County Farm Bureau Board for 35 years, where he also served as Vice President, during which time he spearheaded the Farm Bureau Scholarship. He was also actively involved with the Hertford County Soil and Water Conservation, the Peanut Growers Cooperative Marketing Association, and many other agricultural organizations. In his early years, Jimmy served on the Harrellsville Rescue Squad and Fire Department. His commitment to agriculture and his community never wavered.

A man of deep faith, Jimmy was a devoted member of Harrellsville Baptist Church, where he served as Deacon, Treasurer, and Sunday School teacher. He had a passion for outdoors and woodworking and was a faithful member of the Chinquapin Hunting Club for many years. While he enjoyed all sports, the Wake Forest Demon Deacons held a special place in his heart.

He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Lou Evans Mason and Ralph Cullens Mason, and his brother-in-law, George Meier. He leaves behind his cherished wife of 58 years, Jeannie Land Mason of Harrellsville, North Carolina; his sister, Norma Mason Meier of Tallahassee, Florida; his daughter, Ashley Raymer, and her husband Matt of Cornelius, North Carolina; and his son, Jeffrey Mason, and his wife Nell of Edenton, North Carolina. Jimmy was a proud grandfather to Jackson Raymer, Evans Mason, Wilson Mason, and Mason Raymer. He will also be missed by his “four-legged” friends, Odis and Rufus.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Harrellsville Baptist Church, with Dr. Jeff Crabtree officiating. A private burial will take place at Harrellsville Cemetery prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jimmy’s memory to Harrellsville Baptist Church, 206 East Main Street, P.O. Box 5, Harrellsville, NC 27942; Chowan University, Development Office, One University Place, Murfreesboro, NC 27855; Tunnel To Towers, 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306 or plant a tree in his memory.

James Wilson Mason’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication to his family, his community, and his faith. His spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him, reminding us all of the power of love and service.

The Mason family has entrusted Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service in Ahoskie, North Carolina to assist with the arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.garrettsykesfs.com.