Billy Gene Mason, Sr. , 86, of Joaquin, passed away Monday, January 28, 2013 in Shelbyville. He was born March 11, 1926 in Laneville to J.D. (Pap) Mason and Epsie Grisham Mason.

Billy Mason, Sr., also known as "Mr. Bill, Big Bill or PawPaw" married Deva Ray Smith in September of 1944 and they, along with his brother-in-law, Harvey Burkett and sister-in-law, Dessie Burkett Kale traveled across the states of Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico. His main occupation for most of his life was as a foreman in the pipeline industry. He was a developer and pioneer of many of the early pipe coating processes. He eventually returned to Shelby County and served as County Commissioner of Precinct 3 for two years. Even years later, he returned and continued to serve his community as a heavy equipment operator for Shelby County Precinct 3 up until the hour he was called home.

PawPaw lived by the motto of "never quit wiggling" and was always busy doing something constructive. He truly loved and adored the great outdoors. When he was not hard at work, he was hard at play doing anything to spend his days outside. He loved horses, gardening, hunting, fishing and family. He was always accompanied by his children or grandchildren taking time with each one to impart a life lesson along the journey. He will be deeply and sincerely missed by many.

A special thank you to all the County employees who watched over and took care of Mr. Bill. We love each and every one of you.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 30, 2013 at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, January 31, 2013 at Johnson Cemetery in Joaquin with Bro. Jeff Spring officiating.

Honorary pallbearers will be Travis Rodgers, David Cheatwood, Tony Denby, Rex Hass, Durwood Russell and Robert Amburn.

He is survived by

Daughter: Joyce Mason Cox of Joaquin

Son: Bill Mason Jr. and wife, Stacy of Joaquin

Grandchildren:

Larry Wayne Cox and wife, Cassie

Leslie Marie Windham and husband, David

Zachary Dez Mason

Adam Garrett Mason

Molly Catherine Mason

Great Grandchildren:

Nikki Cox

Jacob Cox

Lane Bates

Trace Windham

Sister-in-law: Dorothy Lawson of Joaquin

Brothers:

Charles Mason and special friend, Dee of New Caney

Kenneth Mason and wife, Reba of Chandler

A number of nieces and nephews

Preceded in death by

Parents: J.D. (Pap) Mason and Epsie Grisham Mason

Wife: Deva Ray Mason

Brother: J. D. Mason, Jr.

Sisters: Ruth Mayfield and Mildred Davis

Son-in-law: Wayne Cox