Swanton, Ohio Native and Former Swanton and Shelby Football Coach James Mason, 90, Passes Away, Leaving Behind Wife Mary Ellen and Children

September 25, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on September 25, 2026

James ‘Jim’ Russel Mason, a longtime resident of Hart, Michigan, and former high school football coach, passed away on Wednesday, September 24, 2026, at the age of 90.

According to his obituary page,passed away after a courageous battle with lung cancer and complications from a fall, surrounded by his loving family.

James ‘Jim’ Rusesel touched the lives of many students and athletes with his decades-long career as a coach and educator.

The late James Mason with his beloved wife, Mary Ellen, and their great-grandchild. (Image Source: Legacy)

Born on May 20, 1935, in Swanton, Ohio, to his late parents, Russell and Ethel Mason, James began his athletic journey at a very young age, playing multiple sports and developing an immense love for the sport.

James Mason attended Swanton High School, where he excelled in football and led his team to several victories.

He later attended Bowling Green University for a year before serving in the United States Marine Corps for two years. Following his service, James earned his Bachelor’s degree in Education from Bowling Green.

Late James ‘Jim’ Mason Began His Teaching and Coaching Career at Swanton High School

James Mason began his career as a teacher and multi-sports coach at his alma mater, Swanton High School.

He coached the Swanton Bulldogs’ football, track, and basketball teams, leading his teams to several victories throughout his tenure.

The late James Mason with his beautiful wife, Mary Ellen.

After a successful career as a teacher and coach at Swanton High School, James Mason and his family relocated to Michigan in 1972, where he owned and operated a Western Auto Hardware store in Hart for several years.

He further continued his career as an educator and a coach in several junior high schools in Hart, Michigan.

Jason Mason served as a dedicated Junior High Principal and Coach for decades, coaching at Shelby Public Schools, where he guided numerous athletes.

He also coached Hart JV as an assistant after retiring from his teaching career in 1988.

In addition to his sports journey, James was also known for his kindness and cheerful nature. His remarkable contribution to the community will always be remembered.

James Mason leaves behind his longtime beloved wife, Mary Ellen. The couple married on September 5, 1964, and were together for 61 years, being each other’s constant supporters and raising three successful children: sons Russell ‘Russ’ and Andrew ‘Andy’, and daughter Natalie.

The couple lived an adventurous life riding motorcycles all over the Nation and Canada.

In 1979, James and Mary Ellen committed their lives to Christ and spent eight years serving with Christian nonprofits, including the SOWERs ministry, and six years with New Horizons Youth Ministry.

From left: Late James Mason, his son, his grandson, and his wife, Mary Ellen. (Image Source: Legacy)

In addition to his wife and three children, James Mason is survived by his daughters-in-law, Charlotte and Karen, son-in-law, Bob Adams, grandchildren, Chris (Lauren), John, Shelby, Erica (Eric), Mason, Forrest (Maribel), Luke (Kayla), David, Josiah (Annika), and Matthew, great-grandchildren Logan, Hannah, Reid, Paisley, Asher, Rowan, Tobias, and Talieson and the entire family.

A memorial service will be held at Hart Wesleyan Church in Hart, Michigan. His family has yet to disclose details about his funeral and memorial services.

In Case You Didn’t Know

  • James Mason earned his master’s degree in counseling from Sienna Heights in 1970.
  • He was a devoted Gideon, Sunday School teacher, and missionary.
  • Check other Articles on

Suruchi is a business management student with a strong passion for writing, particularly when it comes to sports. She loves creating articles and blogs that explore various aspects of the sports world. With a curious mind and a love for both academics and creativity, she constantly seeks to expand her knowledge and share her insights through her writing.

Related articles

May 4, 2026

May 1, 2026

April 21, 2026

April 15, 2026

Comments

LEAVE A REPLY

Comment: Please enter your comment! Name:* Please enter your name here Email:* You have entered an incorrect email address! Please enter your email address here

Δ

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam.

Share article

    - May 8, 2026 What was supposed to be a normal Saturday of youth football quickly became something no parent, coach, or child should ever have to witness....

    - May 7, 2026 Jordan Haas a student athlete at Chatham University, passed away on Monday. He majored in psychology and was a member of the men's volleyball...

    - May 7, 2026 A routine shopping trip at the Adairsville Cracker Barrel turned into a deeply disturbing scene recently when a local woman witnessed what she described...

    - May 6, 2026 A student-athlete at Edinburg High School, Sebastian Garcia, passed away after a long battle with cancer. Sebastian was a member of the Edinburgh Runnin' Bobcats...

    - May 6, 2026 A former baseball coach with deep ties to the Geauga County sports community has been arrested and charged with the rape of a child,...