Dona Mason

Dona Mize Mason, 62 years old, of Mason, OH passed away Wednesday after a two-year battle with mesothelioma. Her smile, her kindness, and her positive influence on the lives of others are the legacy she leaves behind.

Dona was born in Waynesboro, Virginia, the only child of Jacob Thomas Mize and Virginia Mize (née Groves) who preceded her in death. Dona spent all of her childhood in this small town in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. She grew up as the “baby” of her large extended family which included eight uncles and one aunt. She took full advantage of this status often calling upon her uncle to take her into school when she had missed the bus (secretively, of course, so her father did not find out she was late).

After graduation from Lee College, now Lee University, and two additional years in Tennessee, where she began her teaching career, she moved to the Cincinnati, Ohio area. Dona began teaching for Mason City Schools in 1983. She spent 32 years teaching first grade in the district and touched the lives of approximately a thousand students during this time period. She served as a mentor for many young teachers as they embarked upon their journey in the profession. She left an indelible impression on the minds and hearts of so many that came through her classroom.

Dona’s talents as an educator were matched by her skills in the kitchen. She had a passion for food and cooking and for creating experiences for others. She loved to try new recipes and always gave them her personal touch.

Dona lived a life full of laughter, love, and service. These were felt by all who knew her. Her impact on their lives and the love and kindness she showed to each and every one of them will live on forever. She is survived by her husband, Ken Mason, her son and daughter-in-law, Jonathan Culp and Whitney Issenmann Culp, her stepson and daughter-in-law Cole Mason and Carrie Rubinas Mason, and her granddaughters Penelope Culp and Poppy Culp; her “two peas in a pod” whom she loved to spoil so much.

Visitation will be Sunday, September 30, 2018 from 4pm to 7pm at Christ’s Church in Mason. Memorial Service will be Monday, October 1, 2018 at 10:00am , at Christ’s Church, 5165 Western Row Rd., Mason, OH 45040.