Between the milestones of her anticipated birth on July 30, 1923, entrusted to the late William Caywood and Nona Botts, to when she peacefully entered into her Heavenly home on September 11, 2020, Mrs. Vergie Caywood Mason left many footprints behind on the sands of time. Her footprints of life were apparent in her love of God, family, friends, teaching, and warm countenance.
She left early footprints in Mt. Sterling, KY, where she spent her childhood and teen years with her six inseparable siblings (all deceased). Growing up in a Christian home, she was taught the love of Jesus Christ and accepted Him as her Lord and Savior at an early age. Her father, unyielding about his children receiving a college education, ensured her matriculation to Wilberforce University in Wilberforce, Ohio, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce (aka Business Administration). This degree provided her with a teaching position in Lynch, KY, a mountainous coal mining town.
She left footprints on her Beloved family in Lynch, KY where she will be remembered for her three most significant accomplishments: marrying her beloved husband, Mr. Ed Mason, Sr. in 1951, and being the mother of two beautiful children, Michael Lloyd and Terri Lynn. She dearly loved and cherished her husband and children who were the glowing lights of her life. She believed it was God’s grace and mercy to grant her the privilege to raise these two fantastic children. After 41 years of a loving and committed family life, Mr. Mason made his earthly transition in 1992.
She left footprints on her education walk by being the consummate professional educator for 33 years. Her initial appointment was at the Lynch Colored Independent Public School. Her love of teaching was exemplified by introducing students to shorthand, typing, business math, and information technology, the forerunner to computers. For two years she also taught Civics and Health. Her professional competency and the learning excitement she brought into the classroom were well known. She made her students believe, “Yes you can!” She provided the same enthusiasm of learning and pride to the Blue and Gold Pirate cheerleaders as their advisor at the Lynch Colored High School. Mrs. Mason vividly recalled the Lynch Public School System’s integration in 1963, resulting in her transfer to East Main High School. This was a daunting and intimidating time for teachers and students. But her love of education and interest in her students lessened the tension and provided rewarding and exciting experiences. Years later, former students would make contact, validating her as the personification of a teacher. Her professional expertise motivated the students to enjoy learning. Coupled with the academics, she frequently offered words of encouragement that enhanced their self-confidence and self-esteem. She helped the students believe in themselves; subsequently, many pursued post-secondary education, and others obtained excellent positions in the employment world. Recently, a former student who was a college professor and Interim President of Kentucky State University, wrote, “Henry Adams was speaking directly of her when he penned: A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.”
Her footprints in her community exuded self-assurance, possessed a pleasant smile and warm countenance. She was a member and leader in various civic organizations and community activities, including the Order of the Eastern Stars and a faithful and loyal member of the Greater Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, (Lynch, KY) where she took enormous pride in serving as the church secretary for many years.
Her footprints were left on her friends as well. She moved to Columbus, OH in 1986 and joined Woodland Christian Church where she continued to artfully weave people together to bring them into her loving friendship space. The commitment threads of friendship she sewed helped contribute to her living 97 years, with 40 of those years in Southeastern KY.
She shared loving footprints with her deceased husband, Mr. Ed Mason, Sr., and stepson Mr. Ed Mason Jr., all deceased.
Mrs. Mason leaves loving footprints to cherish her life with devoted children Michael and Terri. Grandchildren Brandon, Reyna, and LaTonya (Bobby); great-grandchildren Kywuane, Jayden, and Zaccai; and other loving grandchildren, their families, and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
“Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, those who hold her fast will be Blessed.” Proverbs 3:17-18
PRIVATE Visitation 9:00 AM and Funeral Service 10:00 AM Saturday, September 26, 2020 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave.
A MASK IS MANDATORY.
Interment at Eastlawn Cemetery.
Mrs. Mason was loved and will be greatly missed. She was one of my favorite teachers. My condolences and prayers to the family.
There are no words to express the sorrow in our hearts. Please accept our deepest sympathy. In just a little while all of the pain and sorrow that we feel from the death of our love one will cease and be replaced with joy, because the former things have passed away. Truly sorry for your loss.
Only God knows how many teachers I had from my studies in elementary, middle, high school community college, undergrad college, graduate school, and three post-doctoral experiences. One of the reasons I can’t remember the names of most of my teachers and what they taught me (outside West Main in Lynch) is my age (74). The other reason I don’t remember most of my teachers is because they did not know my family, were not our neighbors, were not so nice and classy and ever-positive and smiling and as affirming and ever-inspiring and always encouraging her students as the lady I will always call Mrs. Mason. She taught me shorthand and typing – skills I still employ every single day. She was compassion and dignified personified.
Not only she was our teacher, she was our neighbor for numerous years. Was one of the greatest teachers ever. With her being my math teacher, I love math tis this day. Now she’s at peace, no more pain, sorrow nor tears. Glad we had a chance in seeing her when we did. May God give them comfort and peace.
Sending our deepest condolences to Terry, Michael and family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Chris and Ray Jackson.
I will always be grateful that Mrs. Mason was my teacher. She was the embodiment of a true lady. I remember her warm smile and encouraging words. She was born to be a teacher, I believe. Teaching seemed to be so natural for her. She always amazed me when I saw her type! I pray for peace and comfort for her beloved family. My world was a much better place because she found her way to Lynch, Kentucky. I will always remember and love her.
Sending our Deepest Condolences Terri, to you and the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. I remember her warm smile and how she would be cheering Reyna and Tonya on at the Gahanna basketball games she was so proud. Rest in Heaven Mrs Mason.
Sharing in the transition of your beloved, Vergie. She was a women of great character, woven of dignity and class. I am sure her life touched many.
Ryland Mullins, Uvella Mullins Lauderdale and
Vivian Mullins Moore
We express our condolences in the loss of your beloved, Mrs. Mason. Our prayers are with you.
Mrs Mason was an Icon and so loved Her Students always wanting them to learn and strive for greatness She also loved Her Church as well as Her Husband Mr. Ed I Ushered under Him for a many Years I am asking GOD the GOD of all comfort to surround You all with His love and peace.
One of the sweetest lady that I know. She was also my typing teacher. Terri and Mike , I offer my condolences to you and family. May God comfort and strengthen you during this time. She’s Earth’s loss but Heaven’s Gain. She will be greatly missed.
My most sincere condolences, prayers, and sympathies go out to Terri, Michael, and to all of Mrs. Mason’s family, friends, and loved ones. Mrs. Mason was one of the most kind, most educated, and most sophisticated people that I have ever met and known. Mrs. Mason and Mr. Mason were always so nice to me, encouraging, and supportive of things I did, especially playing basketball! As I found out in recent years, my mom told me that Mr. Mason was actually the first person to put a basketball in my hands as a young child, and shall we say, the rest is basketball history. Therefore, Mrs. and Mr. Mason have left yet another footprint, and they will forever be a part of the fabric of my life. I remember many days walking up those steps, sitting on that couch in the front, and talking to your parents! Chatting with, seeing, and spending time with Mrs. and Mr. Mason are some of my fondest memories of growing up on First Street in Lynch, Kentucky! May God please wrap His loving arms around each of you, and comfort you with Mrs. Mason’s loving memories during your time of grief, sadness, and sorrow of the loss of your beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, loved one, and friend. Please rest in eternal peace and power Mrs. Mason!
Praying for comfort during your loss
Mike and Terry – I loved your Mom and Dad. They were both great people. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Our memories will last forever. Love you
I’m so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Mrs. Mason was a lovely person who always had a smile for everyone. Condolences to Michael and the family.
Auntie Vergie You Will Forever Be In Our Hearts !! God Has Received An Angel !! We Are Sending All Of Gods Strength To Our Love Ones !! Your Memories Will Be Forever In Our Hearts We Will Love You Forever Auntie Vergie !! Rest In Gods Loving Arms !!
Terri and Mike,
Donna and I send our love and prayers. We will always remember Vergie with love and affection. God bless you and yours. Mary and Donna Cotton.