James ‘Jim’ Russel Mason, a longtime resident of Hart, Michigan, and former high school football coach, passed away on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at the age of 90.
According to his obituary page, James Mason passed away after a courageous battle with lung cancer and complications from a fall, surrounded by his loving family.
James ‘Jim’ Rusesel touched the lives of many students and athletes with his decades-long career as a coach and educator.
Born on May 20, 1935, in Swanton, Ohio, to his late parents, Russell and Ethel Mason, James began his athletic journey at a very young age, playing multiple sports and developing an immense love for the sport.
James Mason attended Swanton High School, where he excelled in football and led his team to several victories.
He later attended Bowling Green University for a year before serving in the United States Marine Corps for two years. Following his service, James earned his Bachelor’s degree in Education from Bowling Green.
Late James ‘Jim’ Mason Began His Teaching and Coaching Career at Swanton High School
James Mason began his career as a teacher and multi-sports coach at his alma mater, Swanton High School.
He coached the Swanton Bulldogs’ football, track, and basketball teams, leading his teams to several victories throughout his tenure.
After a successful career as a teacher and coach at Swanton High School, James Mason and his family relocated to Michigan in 1972, where he owned and operated a Western Auto Hardware store in Hart for several years.
He further continued his career as an educator and a coach in several junior high schools in Hart, Michigan.
Jason Mason served as a dedicated Junior High Principal and Coach for decades, coaching at Shelby Public Schools, where he guided numerous athletes.
He also coached Hart JV as an assistant after retiring from his teaching career in 1988.
In addition to his sports journey, James was also known for his kindness and cheerful nature. His remarkable contribution to the community will always be remembered.
James Mason leaves behind his longtime beloved wife, Mary Ellen. The couple married on September 5, 1964, and were together for 61 years, being each other’s constant supporters and raising three successful children: sons Russell ‘Russ’ and Andrew ‘Andy’, and daughter Natalie.
The couple lived an adventurous life riding motorcycles all over the Nation and Canada.
In 1979, James and Mary Ellen committed their lives to Christ and spent eight years serving with Christian nonprofits, including the SOWERs ministry, and six years with New Horizons Youth Ministry.
In addition to his wife and three children, James Mason is survived by his daughters-in-law, Charlotte and Karen, son-in-law, Bob Adams, grandchildren, Chris (Lauren), John, Shelby, Erica (Eric), Mason, Forrest (Maribel), Luke (Kayla), David, Josiah (Annika), and Matthew, great-grandchildren Logan, Hannah, Reid, Paisley, Asher, Rowan, Tobias, and Talieson and the entire family.
A memorial service will be held at Hart Wesleyan Church in Hart, Michigan. His family has yet to disclose details about his funeral and memorial services.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- James Mason earned his master’s degree in counseling from Sienna Heights in 1970.
- He was a devoted Gideon, Sunday School teacher, and missionary.
