Cary Dale MasonMay 20, 1974 – April 3, 2026

Cary Dale Mason, 51, passed away on April 3, 2026. He was born on May 20, 1974, in Joplin, Missouri, to Mickey Dean Mason and Laurel (Nichols) Mason of Nevada, Missouri.

Cary was raised in Nevada, Missouri, where he graduated from Nevada High School in 1992. Known from an early age for his creativity and remarkable artistic ability, Cary saw the world through a unique lens - one that blended imagination, humor, and a deep sense of curiosity.

After high school, Cary chose to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force, serving from 1992 until his Honorable Discharge on April 29, 2000. During his time in service, he worked as a Security Journeyman, dedicating himself to protecting others with discipline and integrity. He was stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana and served during a pivotal time, contributing to operations that supported national defense efforts. By 1993, Cary was confirmed an Expert Marksman and by 1995, he was ranked E-4 Senior Airman (SRA). Cary earned multiple honors during his service, including Air Force Good Conduct Medal, USAF Superior Academic Achievement Honor Graduate US Air Police Academy, National Defense Service Medal, and other commendations that reflected his commitment and professionalism. Amongst these, he was also awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal in 1995 while assigned to Joint Task Force Operation SAFE HAVEN, Empire Range, Republic of Panama, acknowledging his humanitarian efforts in ensuring the safety and protection of over 2,500 Cuban immigrants, including countless children that forever graced his heart. His military experience shaped his strong sense of order, responsibility, and work ethic, qualities that remained with him throughout his life.

Following his service, Cary continued his education and earned his Associate of Arts degree from Ozarks Technical Community College in Springfield, Missouri, in 1998. He built a career in the trucking industry, where he found both purpose and pride in his work. He spent over 23 years as a professional driver with an exceptional safety record, ultimately being awarded for over 2.5 million accident-free miles. Cary later became a certified CDL instructor, where he trained and mentored new drivers. He was instrumental in developing training programs and writing much of the academy’s operating procedures, demonstrating his ability to simplify complex ideas and create systems that helped others succeed.

Cary had a way of connecting with people that was entirely his own. He loved to fish, to think deeply, and to share conversations filled with insight, humor, and his unmistakable creative flair. He never missed an opportunity to tease his five sisters, bringing laughter and lightness wherever he went. At his core, Cary was kind - someone who would always lend a hand, offer support, or quietly show up when he was needed most. Whether it was through his words, his voice, his art, or his love of music, he was always there. Singing brought him a special kind of joy, and he was especially fond of singing songs by Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, sharing those moments with others in a way that was uniquely his.

He believed in hard work, in doing things the right way, and in bringing clarity to a complicated world. His legacy lives on in the lives he impacted, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave so freely.

Cary was a man who valued what mattered most, his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mickey and Laurel Mason, and two nieces, Lindsay Mason and Dru Hancock. He is survived by his six siblings: Christopher Mason of Nevada, Missouri; Cheryl Shultz (Scott) of Springfield, Missouri; Cynthia Dye (Jimmie) of Nevada, Missouri; Candace Dunback (Christopher) of Eudora, Kansas; Celeste Grothusen (Dallas) of Wichita, Kansas; and Crystal Hancock (Jesse) of Peculiar, Missouri. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews - too many to name, but ALL dearly loved.

Cary will be deeply missed and forever remembered, with his stories, laughter, and love continuing to echo in the lives he touched.

ServicesFuneral services for Cary will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, 1947 East Seminole Street, Springfield, Missouri 65804.

Visitation will take place from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 10:00 a.m. A graveside service with military honors will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, 5201 South Southwood Road, Springfield, Missouri 65804.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Cary’s honor to the Boys & Girls Club of Springfield, 1410 North Fremont Avenue, Springfield, Missouri 65802, or online at www.bgclubspringfield.org, supporting