Born on Thursday, January 27, 1938 in Ann Arbor, MI., he was the son of the late Robert Lee and Catherine Monroe Mason. He married Inge Franz Mason on January 15, 1960. He retired as a Major from the US Army in 1976 and later retired from the Columbus Ledger Enquirer Newspaper in 2002. He was a affiliate member of Asbury United Methodist Church. He was active in Boy Scouts for over 40 years, serving as a Scoutmaster and Camp Ranger at Uchee Creek Boy Scout Camp. Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Inge Mason; a son, James Sands Mason(Amy); a daughter, Stephanie Higgins; grandchildren, Robert Higgins Jr, Michael Everett, Victoria Higgins, James Michael Mason, Christopher Mason, Eva Morris and Christopher Morris; great grandson, Jeremai Everett; a brother-in-law, Harry Tos Brannstrom; nephews, Ricky Mason, Randy Mason, Robbie Mason and Sam Mason; niece, Pam Bouchard; daughters of his heart, Tracy Meyers, Daniela Roberts, Dana Stinson, Rose Usher and Tina Whittamore; grandchildren of his heart, Xzavier Moore, Dougie Props, Julia Roberts, Nadine Roberts and Joey Woodard. He also leaves behind his faithful companion and protector, Kipper Scratch Mason; and many other beloved family and friends.