Randolph Mason

Randolph Mason Sr., “Mr. Mason,” 81, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born to the late Hattie Long-Mason and Chester Zander Mason on August 29, 1943, in Portsmouth, Virginia.

“Randy,” as he was affectionately called, was a loving son, brother, father, grandfather, and uncle. After graduating from I.C. Norcom High School in Portsmouth, VA, Randy relocated to Harrisburg, PA, where he met and married Kathlyn Ray and had two children. Randy enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1964, but due to being injured, he received an honorable discharge. In his young life, he was employed at the Penn Harris Hotel, D&H Distributing Co., and Freuhauf Inc. Randy was a fun-loving husband and father who possessed a serious work ethic. He was an exceptional dancer with a “smooth” dance style. He was loved by all the neighborhood kids because he was active in their lives as well, often participating in and assisting with organized sports and activities. He always displayed a genuine interest in children.

In 1972, Randolph was introduced to Buddhism and ultimately became a Buddhist, remaining one until his death. Guided by the principles of Buddhism, he was a lifelong member of the Central PA Chapter of Soka Gakkai International, committed to peace, compassion, and personal growth.

Randy spent 40 years of his life championing early youth development and engaging in the same community in which he left his timeless impression. Mr. Mason, as many so fondly called him, taught multiple generations of children at The Neighborhood Daycare, later known as Pride of the Neighborhood Academy. During his tenure, he was most known for being an experienced swim coach with a deep passion for the water and a talent for teaching. Randolph should be remembered for how much he gave of himself to the children who attended the Neighborhood Daycare Center. He was selfless and always gave his best in everything he participated in. His legacy will be the impact he had on the lives of several generations of children in the City of Harrisburg.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Chester Jr. and Jimmie Sr., as well as his sister Sheila Mason. Randy is survived by his daughter Angela Mason-Dalton; son Randolph Mason Jr.; his grandchildren Natasha Mason, Raeayne Roy, Christina Reed, Ashley Reed, Naomi Mason, Mecca Mason, and Deuce Dalton; seven great-grandchildren; his ex-wife Kathlyn Herring; three sisters, Helen James, Pamela Gutshall, and Delores Mason; his loving sister-in-law Margie Mason; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

He will be missed by his family and his children, as well as the many friends he made throughout his life. The family would like to thank all of those who crossed Randolph’s path. We sincerely thank you for your prayers and kindness during this time.

Harrisburg Legend

NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO