Henry Mason
June 19, 1931-May 29, 2020
Henry Mason, 88, of Henrico passed away peacefully on Friday, May 29, 2020. Henry was born on June 19, 1931 in Marshall, Missouri to Tanzie and Anna Mason.
Henry was the first black player for the Schenectady Blue Jays, a Philadelphia farm team, in 1955 and played for the legendry Buck O’Neil and the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro Baseball League. Mason was friends with legendary pitcher Satchel Paige. When Mason made it to the major leagues with the Philadelphia Phillies, the first hitter he faced was Willie Mays. He played in the International League for Buffalo and Miami, visiting Richmond several times a season. He also played for the Kansas City A’s and finished his career in the Triple A Pacific Coast League playing in Honolulu. Where did his nickname “Pistol” come from? “I think part of it was that 95 mile-per-hour fastball”. When his elbow gave out at the age of 30, Mason went to work for Goodyear for 10 years before becoming an ordained Methodist minister. He worked for two churches in Kansas City for 14 years, notably serving as the associate minister of Saint James United Methodist Church alongside Congressman Emanuel Cleaver. “I’ve had quite a life,” he said. “I can’t kick.”
Henry is survived by his loving wife Delores Finch Mason and her children, Gail and Van Quarles as well as his two sons, Henry and Charles; one granddaughter Hope; and many other family members and friends.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Affinity Funeral Service Richmond Chapel.
May he rest in everlasting peace! My sincere and and deepest condolences.
My Loving brother-in-law. We loved you, but God loved you more. We will truly miss you but know you are now in his loving care. Thanks for the years we knew you and know that your life, achievements and friendship will forever be a glow in our lives. Steve and I will miss you. We love you. Now rest in the the eternal arms of our God and enjoy your new life in Christ.
You were a gentle and caring soul. We proudly treasure the time that you shared your professional and personal accomplishments in life, with us, and will remember your legacy always. May you rest in eternal peace as our sincere condolences go out to “Dee” and your loving family.
With God’s blessings,
Brenda and sons, Van and Jerome
and friend, Stanley
You will be greatly missed Uncle Bo. We had some great times together as a family when you would come and visit us. Rest In Heaven and tell the the rest of the family I love them❤️
Though the death of my is very sadsad, this is sad that this tribute is incomplete. Hastely put together, there were quite a few ommiissions such as his siblings. RIP Uncle and soon a tribute befitting you is coming.
I just found out. I will miss our talks on the steps in our hallway about baseball. I haven’t had many people in my life I will miss but you are one I will. Rest in peace
Mark
Just Finding out my beloved Favorite customer passed away and I didn’t get to say my Goodbyes. Mr. Mason was like my grandpa I lost long time ago as well. This hit real hard when I found out but now I know my Angel is always above me. Rest Easy And Love Always Darlene from 711 and Smith Family Dentistry. To the family my sincerest condolences. He was a Great Man!🌹
I did not get to spend much time but I know how much Dee Dee talked about you. It made me proud to know about your love for her and family. I am proud to learn of your accomplishments to baseball. I am saddened not to have been able to talk more with you. You will never be forgotten and you now are present with our God.