Clifford J Mason 86 of Walburg, Texas, died peacefully on February 14, 2024 at his residence with family & friends after battling many illnesses. He was born July 3, 1936, in Wirt County, WV and lived his young life in Burning Springs (population less than 150), graduating from Wirt County High School in 1956. He loved being in the outdoors to fish, hunt both squirrels and rabbits while often staying on the river and in the woods.

His wife of 62 years, Margaret L. (Robless) Mason, preceded him in death just a year prior on February 3rd 2023. They are survived by their daughter, Wanda "Jo" Garcia and her husband Mario of Liberty Hill, TX; Margarets sister Alice Pagano (Frank, deceased) of Dundee NY; Clifford's brother Butch Mason (Zelma deceased) of Elizabeth, WV; Bernard W. (dec), sisters JoAnn (dec) and Patsy Wrighy (Virgil) of Vienna; along with other family and friends he considered just like family.

Clifford was in both the US Army & US Air Force and traveled to 6 of the 7 continents throughout his military career. He wore many hats in both the Army and Air Force but his greatest honor was working on the very first SR-71 "Blackbird" as a systems specialist for its ejection seats. During his time in the military, he was sent all around the world and took part in some amazing operations defending our beloved country. His stories captivated so many. He retired after 22 combined years from the Air Force as a Tech Sergeant but also earned his place in the 101st Airborne. After enlisting in the Army in 1957, he was a body and fender welder in the 543rd Ordnance Company near Hanau, Germany. He served during Vietnam and took part in high profile prisoner extractions. He then finished his enlistment and transferred over to the Air Force.

Per his wishes, Clifford was cremated, and his ashes will be spread across "Mason Mountain in Elizabeth, WV, where his roots will continue eternally. Clifford's patriotism was unwavering and his selfless service to others heartwarming. He would often dress as Santa to distribute toys, build cradles and beds for new babies and always quick to build everyone he met a birdhouse. Memorial service will be 2:00PM Saturday, September 14, 2024, at Mason Mountain in Elizabeth WV