Mr. William T. "Bill" Mason, Jr.

Mr. William T. “Bill” Mason, Jr., age 79, of Utica, passed away on Friday, March 11, 2016 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with his loving family by his side. Born in Hopkinsville, Kentucky on January 7, 1937, William was the son of the late William T. and Barbara (White) Mason, Sr. He was raised on the family farm and received his elementary education at Pembroke Elementary. He was a graduate of Hopkinsville High School. Upon graduation, Bill joined the United States Air Force and proudly pursued a 10-year military career. He was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant. On October 14, 1961 he married the former Arlene D. Paciello with whom he shared 54 years. They were a perfect pair; they beautifully balanced one another and made the most of life together. Bill began his career in the insurance industry where he worked for several years. He then found himself a 27-year career with the Mohawk Valley Psychiatric Center in the capacity of a Safety Officer. Bill was a dedicated husband and a devoted father and grandfather, supporting his children and grandchildren in all their activities. He took pride and care in maintaining his home and cherished all his roles as patriarch of his family. Well-versed and warm-hearted, he was a wise and witty conversationalist and a history buff. He knew how to be a good friend and found joy in forming those relationships. A man of simple needs, Bill was mannerly and hospitable; he was the epitome of a Southern gentleman. He was a lifelong Minnesota Vikings fan, and in his youth, he was a talented football player. He enjoyed the rigors of hunting and the relaxation of fishing. William is survived by his wife, Arlene; his son and daughter-in-law, Billy and Pamela Mason of Whitesboro; his cherished grandchildren, Erin, Jack, and Evan Mason; his sister and brother-in-law, Elaine and Nathan Brown of TN; and his brother, Neil Mason of Hopkinsville, KY. His extended family includes many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Lucille and James Schremp, Sandra Paciello, Patricia Francis, and Jerry and Joan Paciello. He was predeceased by his sister, Dawn Askey; and his in-laws, John Paciello, and Douglas Paciello. The family is grateful to Dr. Sultana Razia, and Dr. Wade Hunt, and the staff of the 1st Floor/Allen-Calder Wing for the dedicated care rendered to Bill. Visitation will be held Sunday, March 20th from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In Lieu of floral offering, please consider donations to the American Cancer Society; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. William’s funeral service and Final Blessing will commence on Sunday afternoon at 4:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Pastor Carol Jubenville officiating the ceremony. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery with military honors at the convenience of the family.

Mr. William T. "Bill" Mason, Jr.

January 7, 1937 - March 11, 2016