Raymond K. Mason

Raymond Kenneth Mason was born on July 5, 1935, in St. Petersburg, Florida to Robert Bryan Mason I and Katherine Jennings Mason. He was a lifelong forester, graduating in 1957 from the University of Florida with a degree in Forest Management. He married Doris Elaine Smith in February of 1957. During his career with the United States Forest Service, they lived in three towns in Florida, two towns in Arkansas, two towns in Mississippi and the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. They moved back to their home state of Florida in 1976. Ray took an early retirement with the United States Forest Service after 34 years and went to work for Florida Forestry for another 10 years. He was an avid Florida Gator fan and rarely missed a game. He is survived by his wife, Doris, of 69 years; son, Dr. Robert Bryan Mason II; daughter, Mary Katherine Mitchell; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. God gave Ray the love of his life and blessed them much more than life—He gave them the gift of eternal life in Jesus Christ. There will be a memorial service, followed by refreshments, at Bevis Funeral Home on Friday, June 26, 2026 at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to either the Cornwall Alliance for the Stewardship of Creation, a ministry Ray loved and supported from its beginning; plant a tree in Ray's name with the Arbor Day Foundation; or give to the Raymond Mason Memorial Fund which has been established to honor the life and legacy of a man who faithfully served the Lord and tirelessly championed the cause of life. From the earliest days of The Pregnancy Center of Gadsden County, Mr. Mason was a steadfast friend of this ministry and a passionate advocate for the unborn. His life was a beautiful reflection of godly character, unwavering faith, and genuine compassion for others. Through his words, actions, and faithful support, he demonstrated what it means to walk with Christ in a fallen world. Ray was dearly loved by our staff, volunteers, and supporters, and his impact on this ministry will continue to be felt for years to come. Gifts made in his memory will help continue the life-saving and Gospel-centered work that he so deeply believed in. We are grateful for the privilege of carrying forward a legacy that honored both God and the precious gift of life. Ashli McCall, of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) has the sincere honor of assisting the family with their arrangements.

Tributes

Raymond K. Mason

July 5, 1935 - June 14, 2026