Jerry W. Mason

Jerry W. Mason

October 24, 1943 – April 10, 2024

Jerry Wayne Mason, age 80 of Monroe, peacefully made his final flight to heaven with family by his side on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at the ProMedica Regional Hospital of Monroe.

Born in Polk County, Missouri on October 24, 1943, Jerry was the son of the late Neil and Opal (O’Neal) Mason. In his younger years, he developed a very close relationship with his grandad Willie and held fond memories of them fishing together.

He attended Dadeville High School, where he graduated as Valedictorian of his class in 1961. Jerry received his bachelor’s degree from Southwest Missouri State (now Missouri State) in 1966 and a master’s plus degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1970.

Jerry married Ginger Lingar on January 16, 1982 in Monroe. From that union came a blended family of four children: Kari, Karla, Aaron, and Jennifer. They raised their family and spent over 42 wonderful years together.

Jerry taught mathematics at Cantrick Junior High School, Monroe High School, Monroe County Community College as well as adult education. He took a medical retirement after 34 years of teaching in 2009.  He attended and was faithful to his church, Monroe Nazarene.

Jerry courageously battled multiple myeloma for many years. He enjoyed flying airplanes and attending air shows. He was part of the formation of the first flying club at the University of Cincinnati as well as a member of the Monroe Flying Club (Aero Horizon) at Custer Airport. He took many of his students for plane rides.

Besides flying, Jerry spent his free time working in his garden beds. He worked tirelessly to grow the most beautiful tulips in his yard which were enjoyed by all the neighbors. Jerry modeled a servant’s heart- always willing to help anyone in need. Most importantly, he was very devoted to his wife, Ginger, and children. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Jerry leaves behind his loving wife: Ginger Mason; his children: Kari (Tan) Nguyen and Karla (Dwayne) Cook of Missouri; Aaron (Amy) Mason and Jennifer Smith of Monroe; and their grandson, Brendan, who they raised and thought of as a son. He also leaves behind his grandchildren: Andrea, Kory, Alexander, Miracle, Journee, Chase, Daniel, Matthew, and Jordan; many great grandchildren; and siblings: Larry Mason, Paul Denton (Robin) Mason, and Janice Huff. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents.

Jerry will be remembered as a Christ-centered loving husband, father, grandfather, dedicated teacher, and faithful friend.

Everyone is invited to a visitation on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Rupp Funeral Home from 10 am to 1 pm. The funeral service, officiated by Revs. Kim and Cindy Semran, will start at 1 pm on Saturday. Burial will follow at Woodland Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jerry’s honor may be made out to The Foundation at Monroe County Community College - Project Persist Fund.

Online condolences may be sent to www.ruppfuneralhomeinc.com