Robert A. Mason Sr, a beloved father, husband, and veteran, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2024, at the age of one hundred. Born on June 22, 1924, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Robert lived a life marked by dedication, service, and love.

Some of Robert’s fondest memories were growing up and “laissez le bon temps rouler”, with his family, especially his brother Alvin. He excelled academically and in sports; his preferred game was basketball. Robert left Xavier University during World War II to serve his country with honor in the United States Army.

Robert met and married the love of his life, Gwendolyn Vavasseur and moved to Washington, DC. where he built a life and career, contributing significantly to his community, especially the Catholic church. Robert and Gwen shared a deep and enduring love that spanned over 63 years until her untimely demise in 2011. Their union was blessed with eight children, who gave them eighteen grandchildren on whom Robert doted. He especially enjoyed entertaining the granddaughters and great granddaughters, who each claim to be his “favorite”.  A devoted patriarch, he instilled in his family the values of hard work, integrity, and faith.

Robert’s legacy is one of strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his family.  He sacrificed much to ensure all eight of his children had a solid foundation on which they could build and thrive. He will be remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and the countless lives he touched throughout his long and fruitful life.

Robert A. Mason is survived by his eight children Robert, Gwena, Kenneth (Julia), Rosslyn, Karen, Gerri, Kerry (Kathleen), and Ramona (Craig), eighteen grandchildren, thirty-three great-grandchildren, eighteen great-great-grandchildren, as well as a wealth of nieces and nephews whom he cherished. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gwendolyn, parents Celina and Joseph Mason, six siblings, sons-in-law Melvin Bellamy and Gregory Spriggs and great grandsons Andrew and James.

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