Shirley Anne Mason

Shirley Anne Mason, a devoted mother, loving family matriarch, and steadfast community volunteer, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026. Born on March 3, 1935, in Victoria, Texas, Shirley lived a full life marked by generosity of spirit, passion, and an unwavering commitment to her loved ones and community.

Shirley grew up in Victoria, where she attended Nazareth Academy before pursuing higher education at Navarro College, earning an Associate’s Degree in Education. She dedicated 30 years to Braniff International Airlines and loved the brand for the rest of her life participating in a monthly reunion of fellow Braniff employees. After that she spent 10 years at Bank of America and 18 years at TJ Maxx making friends everywhere she went and always offering a pen from her hair in case anyone EVER needed it.

After marrying in 1962, Shirley and her husband shared 24 years together and creating a family with 3 beloved daughters, Charlotte, Sharon and Sheila. She was predeceased by the girls’ loving Dad, Bev, his wife and her friend, Carole, as well as her parents, Charlie and Francies Arnold Rigamonti, sisters Mary, Grace, and Paula, and brothers-in-law Don, Anton, and Pat.

Shirley’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. A member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church for 57 years and sending all three daughters through St. Luke’s Catholic School. She served as drill team director with the girls in 7-8th grades for 6 years. After retirement at 78, she continued volunteering at both her church and hospital for more than two decades with Energizer Bunny enthusiasm and a bright smile.

She supported the Dallas Cowboys, with a passion rivaled only by her devotion to God and family. Everyone in her circle knew not to stand between her and the TV where she stood six inches away with all fingers crossed yelling “come on boys, we need an interception!”. She also lovingly cheered on her children and grandchildren at sports, school events, and milestones with abundant pride.

Shirley’s home was renowned for its hospitality; she ensured no guest ever left hungry. The pantry at 1916 Bolden was epic and stocked. Kids would come to “visit” but really to eat the snacks no other parents provided with such abundance. Her love transcended traditional boundaries—welcoming every child into her family with warmth and acceptance, regardless of circumstance. She extended kindness to all, including her late husband’s second wife, Carole, who passed just 3 days before her. This remarkable capacity to love without reservation was one of Shirley’s most enduring gifts.

Shirley and Bev’s shared love of travel took them to various destinations, including treasured vacations to Mexico, Hawaii, New York, Washington D.C., and many visits to family in Illinois, New Jersy and California. At 82, Shirley traveled with vigorous energy and zest for life on the trip of her lifetime to Italy. The Vatican met one special lady there.

She is survived by her 3 daughters, Charlotte, Sharon, and Sheila; her son-in-law, Scott; her grandchildren Wendy, Scott, Preston, Cameron, Ben, Samantha, Logan, and Kaitlyn; her bonus grandchild CJ and his mother, Judy; and her great-grandchildren Cord, JJ, Ivi, Sa’Riah, Stephen, Jackson, McKenzie, and Sebastian. Shirley also leaves behind her sister Charlaine, cousin BJ, 22 nieces and nephews, and numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-greats.

The family expresses profound gratitude to Charlotte for her compassionate care from the onset of Shirley’s declining health in October 2024 until her peaceful passing at home—a lifelong wish fulfilled through Charlotte’s love and devotion. They also acknowledge the invaluable support of the Visiting Nurse Association during Shirley’s hospice care. The daughters would also like to express sincere appreciation to Shalone Willms and Karol Whittaker for endless hours of video and photo preparation and for the kindness they always extended to Mom.

A visitation to honor Shirley’s life will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 pm, with a rosary immediately following, at Chism-Smith Funeral Home in Irving, Texas. The funeral Mass will follow on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Luke’s Catholic Church, also in Irving.

Shirley Anne Mason’s remarkable life, defined by love, service, and the stubborn spirit of her half German, half Italian heritage, leaves a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew her. Her warmth, generosity, andzippy personality will be deeply missed but fondly remembered. May she rest in eternal peace.