John Harley Mason of McDonald Chapel went home to be with our Lord on Saturday, September 20th. His loving wife was at his side when he passed. "Pop" was 81 years old. He was preceded in death by several relatives: his parents, Frank and Bessie Mason; sister Frankie Fox and husband Ivan; brother Billy Mason and cousins Alan "Leroy" Fox and Priscilla Ruth Fox. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Peggy, daughter Susan Mason Hancock (Greg), son John Robin Mason (Maggie), grandchildren Joshua and Caitlyn Hancock, sister-in-law Bonnie Mason and a multitude of nieces and nephews. He was also known as "Sweet and Wonderful", a nickname he gave himself in jest that stuck with him through the years. Pop was a long-time member and deacon of Katherwood Baptist Church and was ever willing to assist those in need. One of the many ways he supported Katherwood Christian School was by driving the school bus during layoff periods from his job at United States Steel. Pop retired from US Steel with 42 years of service having worked in both the plate mill and the powerhouse. Known for his gregarious nature and deep bellied laughs, his gentle spirit will be sorely missed by family and friends. Pop lived his life in a way that exemplified the Lord. He loved the Lord, Katherwood Baptist Church and his family dearly. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the respective staffs at the Golden Living Rehabilitation Center, UAB Cardiac Care Unit and UAB Medical West for their compassion and care extended to Pop during his final days. Visitation will be held at Bell Forestdale Chapel on Tuesday, September 23rd from 11:00 - 12:30. Graveside Service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Village Falls Cemetery in Bayview. Rev. Jerry Curry will be officiating. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in Pop''s memory to Katherwood Baptist Church at 600 Roanoke Street, Birmingham, AL 35224. Bell Funeral Home Forestdale directing.