Dorothy F. Mason

Dorothy Francis Mason, age 96, of Mount Solon and formerly of Setauket, New York, passed away on Wednesday, May 3, 2023. Loving spouse to David R. Mason Sr., who preceded her in death. Loving mother to Valerie Susan Mason, Mary Louise Amerine (David), and David R. Mason Jr. (Melissa). Loving grandmother to Mary Catherine Amerine, and Justin David Mason. She was also the loving sister to three brothers: Patrick, Robert, and Thomas, who preceded her in death; and the loving aunt to many nieces and nephews.

In 1950, against the advice of medical specialists, family, and friends, Dorothy and David refused to institutionalize their special needs daughter, Valerie, who could not progress beyond the mental age of 2. Dorothy and David cared for Valerie until her passing in 1985 at the age of 35. Dorothy inspired us by her example and her unceasing commitment to her family and her faith. She cherished family above all, and loved us unconditionally. Please take a moment to think about all the people who love you – truly love you. Maybe they can only be counted on one hand, or more if you are blessed. It is a sad day when someone who loves you is no longer here. Dorothy recognized that no matter how long you live, life is still too short. Just love each other, she would say, and don’t wait to let them know you love them.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Staunton, Virginia on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at 12:00PM with the Reverend Matthias Lusembo officiating.

The Rite of Committal will be held on Monday, May 15, 2023 at 11:00 AM at the Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Coram, New York.