Thomas Julius Mason

Thomas Julius Mason July 18, 1950 – November 29, 2025 Thomas Julius Mason, 75, passed away on November 29, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Muskegon, Michigan, on July 18, 1950, Tom built a life marked by dedication, integrity, humor, and an unwavering sense of who he was. A graduate of the University of Michigan with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Tom began his career with a deep curiosity for how things worked and a commitment to improving the world around him. After moving to Greenville, South Carolina, in 1976, he spent 35 years with the Greenville Hospital System in facilities development and purchasing roles, where he led major initiatives that supported the hospital’s growth and its mission of caring for the community. He retired after a long and distinguished career, remembered for his reliability, steady leadership, and thoughtful approach to every project. Tom’s personality was unmistakable: he possessed a sharp wit, a profound sense of sarcasm, and the classic Mason stubborn streak. Once he made up his mind—whether about tackling a project or refusing one—it was nearly impossible to persuade him otherwise. He had a particular way things ought to be done: loading the dishwasher with engineering precision, balancing his checkbook to the penny each month, and steadfastly declining to participate in online banking no matter how the world changed around him. He found great joy in life’s simple pleasures: the companionship of his beloved pets, Sam and Jaxx; his heated, vibrating La-Z-Boy recliner; morning coffee and sweet pastries; cheering for University of Michigan football and the Atlanta Braves; and time spent visiting with friends and family. He introduced his children to the joy of reading—an influence that stuck firmly with Katie—and passed along his own blend of practical philosophies, from Occam’s Razor to the good-humored admonition, “Don’t get mad—get even.” Tom loved his family deeply and reveled in spoiling his grandchildren. Birthdays meant a carte-blanche trip to the toy store, where Grandpa delighted in saying yes to whatever they chose. When Leah and Trip were young, he cherished their weekly Dollar Store outings—rituals that often ended with his wallet considerably lighter and his heart considerably fuller. All children and animals were naturally drawn to him; his calm, steady presence lulled many a restless little one—or family pet—to sleep on his lap. For more than twenty years, Tom made his home in Travelers Rest with his beloved wife of 22 years, Yvonne. He is survived by Yvonne Mason; his children, Katie (Derek) Conrad and Tim Mason; and his stepdaughter, Kim (Robbie) Cole. He was a devoted and joyful grandfather to Jacob Gaillard, Nigel Gaillard, Kensley Conrad, Leah Cole, and Trip Cole. Tom was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Margaret Mason; his brother Joe and sister-in-law Dee; and his sister Betty Ann Dugas and brother-in-law Ron. He is survived by his little brother, Dennis Mason, and sister-in-law Jeanne, along with a niece and six nephews. Tom will be remembered for his humor, his generosity, his fierce loyalty, and the love he poured into his family. His presence was steady, strong, and deeply felt—and he will be profoundly missed. A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025 at 2:00 PM at the Howze Mortuary, 6714 State Park Rd., Travelers Rest, SC. Arrangements will be handled by Howze Mortuary.

Thomas Julius Mason

July 18, 1950 - November 29, 2025