The much respected Dr. Gilbert Rutldege Mason Sr. (1928-2006) departed this life the morning of Saturday, July 8, 2006 at the Ocean Springs Hospital in Ocean Springs, Mississippi after a prolonged illness.
Compelled to ensure equal civil liberties for all, Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr. was a fearless patriot who often was one of the first in a group of concerned citizens that fought for soicaal change, justice and civil rights. He was commonly referred to as the "civil rights doctor" or the "drum major for freedom". Recognized for his local, state and national activism, he joined his friends and allies Aaron Henry (1922-1997) and the martyred Medgar W. Evers (1925-1963) to combat injustices in one of the nation's most notorious bastions of segregation.(from Beaches, Blood, and Ballots, A Black Doctor's Civil Rights Struggle, 1998)
Dr. Mason was a dedicated physician who was committed to quality health care and fundamental patient rights for those on the Gulf Coast and the entire State of Mississippi. he fought for "respect for the dignity of black patients and white patients alike" and for equal status of black physicians in previously all white hospitals and the medical community at large.
A focal point of his tireless legacy was to effect equal access to education in the public schools in Biloxi and all Harrison County. A tradition of segregation compelled the dynamic Dr. Mason to fight the Jim Crow school systems and to demand equal opportunity for the best possible public education for all children.
Distressed by inequality in voting rights, Dr. Mason and others pioneered political awareness among black citizens through staunch involvement with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Democratic Party. He employed every tool to establish voting rights as well as voter education programs. His fight for desegregation of the Biloxi Public Schools and spearheading the "Beach Wade Ins" were his most legendary accomplishments.
Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason, Sr. was born at home in Jackson, Mississippi, on October 7, 1928. He was the third child of Willie A. and Adeline Mason. An intellectually curious child, he was educated in public schools and was a 1945 graduate of Lanier High School in Jackson, Mississippi. He participated in Boy Scouting among many other activities and was one of the first black Mississippians to earn the rank of Eagle Scout.
At a young age of sixteen, Dr. Mason pursued an undergraduate degree at Tennessee State University, in Nashville. During his freshman year, he met and fell in love with Natalie Lorraine Hamlar of Roanoke, Virginia, whom he married in 1950. While in college, Dr. Mason became a member of Zeta Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity beginning one of his most inspiring and precious life long activities.
In 1949 he completed studies with "high distinction" earning a double degree in Chemistry and Biology with a minor in Math. Obviously, having a keen mind oriented toward science he decided to pursue a Doctor of Medicine Degree at Howard University in Washington, D.C. He graduated with honors in the spring of 1954. He completed an internship at Homer G. Phillips Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, one of the foremost post graduate training institutions for African-American physicians. In later years he was proud to earn certification as a Diplomate of the American Academy of Family Physicians and he maintained his board certification status almost until the year of his retirement.
Determined to make his home in Mississippi, Dr. Mason identified Biloxi as the place he wanted to begin his medical career. He moved with his wife and year old son, Gilbert Jr., and established a medical practice in 1955. The Masons quickly became members of First Missionary Baptist Church in Biloxi. Because of his commitment to community, he became a Scout Master (Troop 416) serving as a mentor for hundreds of young men who have gone on to achieve various successes inspired by his life. He became a member of the PTA, Masonic Lodge (33rd Degree), and Elks Lodge. With a great command and impeccable knowledge of Roberts Rules of Order he demanded proper Parliamentary Procedure in his civic activities. He often felt his most significant contribution to the community was founding the Biloxi Branch of the NAACP in 1960, of which he was president for more than 30 years.
Dr. Mason became affiliated with the Biloxi Hospital (later known as Howard Memorial) obtaining hospital privileges but was unfairly limited to courtesy status only. From 1955 to 1966 he could not participate fully as a member of the medical staff because of the traditions of segregation. In 1967, he conferred full staff privileges and would later become a member of the State Board of Health, the State Board of Medical Examiners (licensing board), and was selected chairman of the family practice section at Biloxi Regional Hospital. He practiced also at Gulf Coast Medical Center and the Select Specialty Hospital. Dr. Mason also served as a contract physician for the US Public Health Service caring for members of the Merchant Marine for many years. He practiced family medicine until his retirement in 2002 at which time he was honored by city leaders, fellow physicians, patients and those who walked with him in his struggle for equality. His son, Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason, Jr., carries on his tradition in the medical field as a primary care physician. Dr. Mason Sr.'s retirement was accelerated by his having a stroke in December 1997.
After retirement Dr. Mason remained active with the Mississippi State Board of Archives and History. He also became more active in his church through bible study and prayer meetings while sharing his intense knowledge of scripture.
In December, 2004 he had the good fortune of marrying the very loving, caring and supportive Gwendolyn L. Anderson which renewed his spirit and gave him a new found enthusiasm for life. Dr. Mason suffered a debilitating second stoke in February 2005. After months of rehabilitation care Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason, Sr. departed this life peacefully in the early morning hours on July 8th, 2006.
Dr. Gilbert R. Mason, Sr. is preceded in death by his parents Willie Atwood Mason and Adeline Mason, his sister Rozelia Mason Stamps, his brother Willie L. Mason, and his first wife Natalie L. Hamlar Mason (1927-1999). He will be missed by his endearing wife Gwendolyn Lewis Anderson Mason, mother-in-law, Ada Lewis; sister-in-law Elnora N. Mason, niece, Carolyn Mason Stamps Varnado. He is survived by his beloved daughters Diane Marcelin, Gilda Yvette Sizor, Yolanda Marie Juzang, Angela Rose Juzang, and Gilbert, Jr.'s ex spouse Givonna Joseph; his sons Darian Anderson, (Karen), David Owens Mason, Adam Owens and Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason Jr.; grandchildren Aria Mason, Darian Jr. and Adarian Anderson, Alejandro Castillo, Masai and Julian Marcelin, Jordan Mason Sizor and Nigel Rutledge Sizor, Tai Juzang-McFadden, Jaalon and English Juzang Pratt. He will be missed by a host of various great uncles, great aunts, great cousins, uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, niece and nephew-in-laws, brother and sisters-in-law and adoring step-children and their spouses.
Visitation for the public will be Friday, July 14, 2006, from 3:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Sanctuary of Greater St. John, AME Church, Biloxi, Mississippi, 551 Division Street. Burial services will be private. A public Memorial Tribute is planned for July 30th at 3:00 p.m. at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum, open to all.
Dr. Mason's funeral services were under the auspices of The House of Richmond, Biloxi, Mississippi. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Biloxi Branch of the NAACP, P.O. Box 4149 Biloxi, Mississippi 39535-4919.
BIOGRAPHICAL [from www.thehistorymakers.com/biography/dr-gilbert-r-mason-sr-39]
INTERVIEW DATE: 11/11/2002
Gilbert R. Mason, Sr., "wade-in" activist and physician, was born in Jackson, Mississippi, on October 7, 1928. When he graduated from Jackson's Lanier High School in 1945, Mason dreamed of becoming a doctor. He earned a B.S. degree from Tennessee State University in 1949. He earned an M.D. degree from Howard University Medical School in 1954 and served a year as an intern at Homer G. Phillips Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
Mason started a family practice in Biloxi, Mississippi, in 1955. In May 1959, he led a nonviolent protest against the "whites only" section of a federally funded Gulf Coast beach. Mason's group was arrested. Subsequent "wade-ins" ignited some of the bloodiest white rioting in Mississippi history. These resulted in a successful antidiscrimination lawsuit against the state of Mississippi, the first such case filed in U.S. history. At the same time, Mason filed the first school desegregation lawsuit in the history of Biloxi, which he also won. Mason collaborated with other Mississippi NAACP activists, including Winston Hudson, Amzie Moore, Aaron Henry and Medgar Evers. He helped the NAACP join with CORE, SNCC and SCLC to form the Council of Federated Organizations (COFO). Mason played a role in COFO's massive black voter registration drive, the Freedom Summer of 1964. Mason served as president of the Mississippi NAACP for thirty-three years.
The recipient of numerous awards as a physician, Mason was recognized with a special commendation by joint resolution of the Mississippi State Legislature on March 1, 2002 for his contributions to the Biloxi Regional Medical Center. He resided in Biloxi where he was known as "the civil rights doctor" until his death on July 8, 2006.
On Sunday, July 30, 2006, the Mayor of Biloxi, Mississippi proclaimed it to be Dr. Gilbert Mason Day in Biloxi.
Selected Bibliography:
Dr. Gilbert Mason and James Patterson Smith, Blood and Ballots: A Black Doctor's Civil Rights Struggles, (University Press of Mississippi-1998).
TESTIMONIALS
BILOXI - Members of the First Missionary Baptist Church remembered Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr. on Sunday as an avid Bible scholar and a man who was earnest in his worship at the Biloxi church.
Deacon L.J. Travis, church mother Luvern Gines and others spoke about Mason following services at the church's temporary location on Main Street, about two blocks away from the damaged sanctuary that has been cleared from Esthers Boulevard.
Mason, one of the state's leading crusaders for racial equality, died Friday night after a long illness. He was 77. In his civil rights struggle, Mason is remembered as the organizer of beach wade-ins, the state's first civil disobedience. He was also a medical doctor.
Mississippi NAACP President Derrick Johnson on Saturday said "the state has five pillars who worked to ensure the discrimination of citizens of Mississippi will no longer exist, and he is one of those five. Aaron Henry, Winston Hudson, Medgar Evers, C.C. Bryant and Gilbert Mason - those are the five who fought for the freedom of Mississippi during a time when it was not popular or safe. And despite many threats on their lives they continued to fight."
Travis, deacon for 25 years, said Mason was unable to attend many services during his early years because of the hectic medical and community work schedule. But during his later years, Bible study was his favorite church activity.
Gines, who said the physician delivered all eight of her children, said Mason was sincere and strong in his faith. She never knew him to hold a church office, but the congregation provided time for him to speak at worship services and special programs.
"He would always have the last word," Gines said. "We honored him that much that we would ask him 'Do you have anything to say?'
She said he came at a time when blacks needed a doctor, and changed Biloxi for them and all people. "He changed the schools and the whole city of Biloxi. He will be missed," she said.
Church member Vonnie Travis said at one point, Mason encouraged her to take over leadership of a local Martin Luther King celebration. "He was an encourager," she said. "He was a great fan of and an excellent communicator in developing winning habits."
(The Sun Herald, July 10, 2006)
REFERENCES:
Dr. Gilbert Mason and James Patterson Smith, 'Beaches, Blood and Ballots: A Black Doctor's Civil Rights Struggles', (University Press of Mississippi: Jackson, Mississippi-1998).
The Daily Herald, 'Negro physician [while attempting to swim on Biloxi's Beach] arrested by Biloxi Police', August 18, 1960, p. 2.
The Sun Herald, 'Natalie L. Hamlar Mason', July 5, 1999.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason sr.: Coast human rights pioneer dies', July 8, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.-Mason battled for human rights', July 9, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Despite threats, Mason continued fighting for equality in Mississippi', July 10, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.: A hero in the struggle against hatred', July 11, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.', July 14, 2006, p. A4.
The Sun Herald, 'We have lost a giant of a man-Civil Rights doctor praised', July 15, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.', December 27, 2006, p. A2.
Compelled to ensure equal civil liberties for all, Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr. was a fearless patriot who often was one of the first in a group of concerned citizens that fought for soicaal change, justice and civil rights. He was commonly referred to as the "civil rights doctor" or the "drum major for freedom". Recognized for his local, state and national activism, he joined his friends and allies Aaron Henry (1922-1997) and the martyred Medgar W. Evers (1925-1963) to combat injustices in one of the nation's most notorious bastions of segregation.(from Beaches, Blood, and Ballots, A Black Doctor's Civil Rights Struggle, 1998)
Dr. Mason was a dedicated physician who was committed to quality health care and fundamental patient rights for those on the Gulf Coast and the entire State of Mississippi. he fought for "respect for the dignity of black patients and white patients alike" and for equal status of black physicians in previously all white hospitals and the medical community at large.
A focal point of his tireless legacy was to effect equal access to education in the public schools in Biloxi and all Harrison County. A tradition of segregation compelled the dynamic Dr. Mason to fight the Jim Crow school systems and to demand equal opportunity for the best possible public education for all children.
Distressed by inequality in voting rights, Dr. Mason and others pioneered political awareness among black citizens through staunch involvement with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Democratic Party. He employed every tool to establish voting rights as well as voter education programs. His fight for desegregation of the Biloxi Public Schools and spearheading the "Beach Wade Ins" were his most legendary accomplishments.
Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason, Sr. was born at home in Jackson, Mississippi, on October 7, 1928. He was the third child of Willie A. and Adeline Mason. An intellectually curious child, he was educated in public schools and was a 1945 graduate of Lanier High School in Jackson, Mississippi. He participated in Boy Scouting among many other activities and was one of the first black Mississippians to earn the rank of Eagle Scout.
At a young age of sixteen, Dr. Mason pursued an undergraduate degree at Tennessee State University, in Nashville. During his freshman year, he met and fell in love with Natalie Lorraine Hamlar of Roanoke, Virginia, whom he married in 1950. While in college, Dr. Mason became a member of Zeta Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity beginning one of his most inspiring and precious life long activities.
In 1949 he completed studies with "high distinction" earning a double degree in Chemistry and Biology with a minor in Math. Obviously, having a keen mind oriented toward science he decided to pursue a Doctor of Medicine Degree at Howard University in Washington, D.C. He graduated with honors in the spring of 1954. He completed an internship at Homer G. Phillips Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, one of the foremost post graduate training institutions for African-American physicians. In later years he was proud to earn certification as a Diplomate of the American Academy of Family Physicians and he maintained his board certification status almost until the year of his retirement.
Determined to make his home in Mississippi, Dr. Mason identified Biloxi as the place he wanted to begin his medical career. He moved with his wife and year old son, Gilbert Jr., and established a medical practice in 1955. The Masons quickly became members of First Missionary Baptist Church in Biloxi. Because of his commitment to community, he became a Scout Master (Troop 416) serving as a mentor for hundreds of young men who have gone on to achieve various successes inspired by his life. He became a member of the PTA, Masonic Lodge (33rd Degree), and Elks Lodge. With a great command and impeccable knowledge of Roberts Rules of Order he demanded proper Parliamentary Procedure in his civic activities. He often felt his most significant contribution to the community was founding the Biloxi Branch of the NAACP in 1960, of which he was president for more than 30 years.
Dr. Mason became affiliated with the Biloxi Hospital (later known as Howard Memorial) obtaining hospital privileges but was unfairly limited to courtesy status only. From 1955 to 1966 he could not participate fully as a member of the medical staff because of the traditions of segregation. In 1967, he conferred full staff privileges and would later become a member of the State Board of Health, the State Board of Medical Examiners (licensing board), and was selected chairman of the family practice section at Biloxi Regional Hospital. He practiced also at Gulf Coast Medical Center and the Select Specialty Hospital. Dr. Mason also served as a contract physician for the US Public Health Service caring for members of the Merchant Marine for many years. He practiced family medicine until his retirement in 2002 at which time he was honored by city leaders, fellow physicians, patients and those who walked with him in his struggle for equality. His son, Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason, Jr., carries on his tradition in the medical field as a primary care physician. Dr. Mason Sr.'s retirement was accelerated by his having a stroke in December 1997.
After retirement Dr. Mason remained active with the Mississippi State Board of Archives and History. He also became more active in his church through bible study and prayer meetings while sharing his intense knowledge of scripture.
In December, 2004 he had the good fortune of marrying the very loving, caring and supportive Gwendolyn L. Anderson which renewed his spirit and gave him a new found enthusiasm for life. Dr. Mason suffered a debilitating second stoke in February 2005. After months of rehabilitation care Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason, Sr. departed this life peacefully in the early morning hours on July 8th, 2006.
Dr. Gilbert R. Mason, Sr. is preceded in death by his parents Willie Atwood Mason and Adeline Mason, his sister Rozelia Mason Stamps, his brother Willie L. Mason, and his first wife Natalie L. Hamlar Mason (1927-1999). He will be missed by his endearing wife Gwendolyn Lewis Anderson Mason, mother-in-law, Ada Lewis; sister-in-law Elnora N. Mason, niece, Carolyn Mason Stamps Varnado. He is survived by his beloved daughters Diane Marcelin, Gilda Yvette Sizor, Yolanda Marie Juzang, Angela Rose Juzang, and Gilbert, Jr.'s ex spouse Givonna Joseph; his sons Darian Anderson, (Karen), David Owens Mason, Adam Owens and Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason Jr.; grandchildren Aria Mason, Darian Jr. and Adarian Anderson, Alejandro Castillo, Masai and Julian Marcelin, Jordan Mason Sizor and Nigel Rutledge Sizor, Tai Juzang-McFadden, Jaalon and English Juzang Pratt. He will be missed by a host of various great uncles, great aunts, great cousins, uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, niece and nephew-in-laws, brother and sisters-in-law and adoring step-children and their spouses.
Visitation for the public will be Friday, July 14, 2006, from 3:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Sanctuary of Greater St. John, AME Church, Biloxi, Mississippi, 551 Division Street. Burial services will be private. A public Memorial Tribute is planned for July 30th at 3:00 p.m. at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum, open to all.
Dr. Mason's funeral services were under the auspices of The House of Richmond, Biloxi, Mississippi. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Biloxi Branch of the NAACP, P.O. Box 4149 Biloxi, Mississippi 39535-4919.
BIOGRAPHICAL [from www.thehistorymakers.com/biography/dr-gilbert-r-mason-sr-39]
INTERVIEW DATE: 11/11/2002
Gilbert R. Mason, Sr., "wade-in" activist and physician, was born in Jackson, Mississippi, on October 7, 1928. When he graduated from Jackson's Lanier High School in 1945, Mason dreamed of becoming a doctor. He earned a B.S. degree from Tennessee State University in 1949. He earned an M.D. degree from Howard University Medical School in 1954 and served a year as an intern at Homer G. Phillips Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
Mason started a family practice in Biloxi, Mississippi, in 1955. In May 1959, he led a nonviolent protest against the "whites only" section of a federally funded Gulf Coast beach. Mason's group was arrested. Subsequent "wade-ins" ignited some of the bloodiest white rioting in Mississippi history. These resulted in a successful antidiscrimination lawsuit against the state of Mississippi, the first such case filed in U.S. history. At the same time, Mason filed the first school desegregation lawsuit in the history of Biloxi, which he also won. Mason collaborated with other Mississippi NAACP activists, including Winston Hudson, Amzie Moore, Aaron Henry and Medgar Evers. He helped the NAACP join with CORE, SNCC and SCLC to form the Council of Federated Organizations (COFO). Mason played a role in COFO's massive black voter registration drive, the Freedom Summer of 1964. Mason served as president of the Mississippi NAACP for thirty-three years.
The recipient of numerous awards as a physician, Mason was recognized with a special commendation by joint resolution of the Mississippi State Legislature on March 1, 2002 for his contributions to the Biloxi Regional Medical Center. He resided in Biloxi where he was known as "the civil rights doctor" until his death on July 8, 2006.
On Sunday, July 30, 2006, the Mayor of Biloxi, Mississippi proclaimed it to be Dr. Gilbert Mason Day in Biloxi.
Selected Bibliography:
Dr. Gilbert Mason and James Patterson Smith, Blood and Ballots: A Black Doctor's Civil Rights Struggles, (University Press of Mississippi-1998).
TESTIMONIALS
BILOXI - Members of the First Missionary Baptist Church remembered Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr. on Sunday as an avid Bible scholar and a man who was earnest in his worship at the Biloxi church.
Deacon L.J. Travis, church mother Luvern Gines and others spoke about Mason following services at the church's temporary location on Main Street, about two blocks away from the damaged sanctuary that has been cleared from Esthers Boulevard.
Mason, one of the state's leading crusaders for racial equality, died Friday night after a long illness. He was 77. In his civil rights struggle, Mason is remembered as the organizer of beach wade-ins, the state's first civil disobedience. He was also a medical doctor.
Mississippi NAACP President Derrick Johnson on Saturday said "the state has five pillars who worked to ensure the discrimination of citizens of Mississippi will no longer exist, and he is one of those five. Aaron Henry, Winston Hudson, Medgar Evers, C.C. Bryant and Gilbert Mason - those are the five who fought for the freedom of Mississippi during a time when it was not popular or safe. And despite many threats on their lives they continued to fight."
Travis, deacon for 25 years, said Mason was unable to attend many services during his early years because of the hectic medical and community work schedule. But during his later years, Bible study was his favorite church activity.
Gines, who said the physician delivered all eight of her children, said Mason was sincere and strong in his faith. She never knew him to hold a church office, but the congregation provided time for him to speak at worship services and special programs.
"He would always have the last word," Gines said. "We honored him that much that we would ask him 'Do you have anything to say?'
She said he came at a time when blacks needed a doctor, and changed Biloxi for them and all people. "He changed the schools and the whole city of Biloxi. He will be missed," she said.
Church member Vonnie Travis said at one point, Mason encouraged her to take over leadership of a local Martin Luther King celebration. "He was an encourager," she said. "He was a great fan of and an excellent communicator in developing winning habits."
(The Sun Herald, July 10, 2006)
REFERENCES:
Dr. Gilbert Mason and James Patterson Smith, 'Beaches, Blood and Ballots: A Black Doctor's Civil Rights Struggles', (University Press of Mississippi: Jackson, Mississippi-1998).
The Daily Herald, 'Negro physician [while attempting to swim on Biloxi's Beach] arrested by Biloxi Police', August 18, 1960, p. 2.
The Sun Herald, 'Natalie L. Hamlar Mason', July 5, 1999.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason sr.: Coast human rights pioneer dies', July 8, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.-Mason battled for human rights', July 9, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Despite threats, Mason continued fighting for equality in Mississippi', July 10, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.: A hero in the struggle against hatred', July 11, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.', July 14, 2006, p. A4.
The Sun Herald, 'We have lost a giant of a man-Civil Rights doctor praised', July 15, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.', December 27, 2006, p. A2.
The much respected Dr. Gilbert Rutldege Mason Sr. (1928-2006) departed this life the morning of Saturday, July 8, 2006 at the Ocean Springs Hospital in Ocean Springs, Mississippi after a prolonged illness.
Compelled to ensure equal civil liberties for all, Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr. was a fearless patriot who often was one of the first in a group of concerned citizens that fought for soicaal change, justice and civil rights. He was commonly referred to as the "civil rights doctor" or the "drum major for freedom". Recognized for his local, state and national activism, he joined his friends and allies Aaron Henry (1922-1997) and the martyred Medgar W. Evers (1925-1963) to combat injustices in one of the nation's most notorious bastions of segregation.(from Beaches, Blood, and Ballots, A Black Doctor's Civil Rights Struggle, 1998)
Dr. Mason was a dedicated physician who was committed to quality health care and fundamental patient rights for those on the Gulf Coast and the entire State of Mississippi. he fought for "respect for the dignity of black patients and white patients alike" and for equal status of black physicians in previously all white hospitals and the medical community at large.
A focal point of his tireless legacy was to effect equal access to education in the public schools in Biloxi and all Harrison County. A tradition of segregation compelled the dynamic Dr. Mason to fight the Jim Crow school systems and to demand equal opportunity for the best possible public education for all children.
Distressed by inequality in voting rights, Dr. Mason and others pioneered political awareness among black citizens through staunch involvement with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Democratic Party. He employed every tool to establish voting rights as well as voter education programs. His fight for desegregation of the Biloxi Public Schools and spearheading the "Beach Wade Ins" were his most legendary accomplishments.
Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason, Sr. was born at home in Jackson, Mississippi, on October 7, 1928. He was the third child of Willie A. and Adeline Mason. An intellectually curious child, he was educated in public schools and was a 1945 graduate of Lanier High School in Jackson, Mississippi. He participated in Boy Scouting among many other activities and was one of the first black Mississippians to earn the rank of Eagle Scout.
At a young age of sixteen, Dr. Mason pursued an undergraduate degree at Tennessee State University, in Nashville. During his freshman year, he met and fell in love with Natalie Lorraine Hamlar of Roanoke, Virginia, whom he married in 1950. While in college, Dr. Mason became a member of Zeta Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity beginning one of his most inspiring and precious life long activities.
In 1949 he completed studies with "high distinction" earning a double degree in Chemistry and Biology with a minor in Math. Obviously, having a keen mind oriented toward science he decided to pursue a Doctor of Medicine Degree at Howard University in Washington, D.C. He graduated with honors in the spring of 1954. He completed an internship at Homer G. Phillips Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, one of the foremost post graduate training institutions for African-American physicians. In later years he was proud to earn certification as a Diplomate of the American Academy of Family Physicians and he maintained his board certification status almost until the year of his retirement.
Determined to make his home in Mississippi, Dr. Mason identified Biloxi as the place he wanted to begin his medical career. He moved with his wife and year old son, Gilbert Jr., and established a medical practice in 1955. The Masons quickly became members of First Missionary Baptist Church in Biloxi. Because of his commitment to community, he became a Scout Master (Troop 416) serving as a mentor for hundreds of young men who have gone on to achieve various successes inspired by his life. He became a member of the PTA, Masonic Lodge (33rd Degree), and Elks Lodge. With a great command and impeccable knowledge of Roberts Rules of Order he demanded proper Parliamentary Procedure in his civic activities. He often felt his most significant contribution to the community was founding the Biloxi Branch of the NAACP in 1960, of which he was president for more than 30 years.
Dr. Mason became affiliated with the Biloxi Hospital (later known as Howard Memorial) obtaining hospital privileges but was unfairly limited to courtesy status only. From 1955 to 1966 he could not participate fully as a member of the medical staff because of the traditions of segregation. In 1967, he conferred full staff privileges and would later become a member of the State Board of Health, the State Board of Medical Examiners (licensing board), and was selected chairman of the family practice section at Biloxi Regional Hospital. He practiced also at Gulf Coast Medical Center and the Select Specialty Hospital. Dr. Mason also served as a contract physician for the US Public Health Service caring for members of the Merchant Marine for many years. He practiced family medicine until his retirement in 2002 at which time he was honored by city leaders, fellow physicians, patients and those who walked with him in his struggle for equality. His son, Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason, Jr., carries on his tradition in the medical field as a primary care physician. Dr. Mason Sr.'s retirement was accelerated by his having a stroke in December 1997.
After retirement Dr. Mason remained active with the Mississippi State Board of Archives and History. He also became more active in his church through bible study and prayer meetings while sharing his intense knowledge of scripture.
In December, 2004 he had the good fortune of marrying the very loving, caring and supportive Gwendolyn L. Anderson which renewed his spirit and gave him a new found enthusiasm for life. Dr. Mason suffered a debilitating second stoke in February 2005. After months of rehabilitation care Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason, Sr. departed this life peacefully in the early morning hours on July 8th, 2006.
Dr. Gilbert R. Mason, Sr. is preceded in death by his parents Willie Atwood Mason and Adeline Mason, his sister Rozelia Mason Stamps, his brother Willie L. Mason, and his first wife Natalie L. Hamlar Mason (1927-1999). He will be missed by his endearing wife Gwendolyn Lewis Anderson Mason, mother-in-law, Ada Lewis; sister-in-law Elnora N. Mason, niece, Carolyn Mason Stamps Varnado. He is survived by his beloved daughters Diane Marcelin, Gilda Yvette Sizor, Yolanda Marie Juzang, Angela Rose Juzang, and Gilbert, Jr.'s ex spouse Givonna Joseph; his sons Darian Anderson, (Karen), David Owens Mason, Adam Owens and Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason Jr.; grandchildren Aria Mason, Darian Jr. and Adarian Anderson, Alejandro Castillo, Masai and Julian Marcelin, Jordan Mason Sizor and Nigel Rutledge Sizor, Tai Juzang-McFadden, Jaalon and English Juzang Pratt. He will be missed by a host of various great uncles, great aunts, great cousins, uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, niece and nephew-in-laws, brother and sisters-in-law and adoring step-children and their spouses.
Visitation for the public will be Friday, July 14, 2006, from 3:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Sanctuary of Greater St. John, AME Church, Biloxi, Mississippi, 551 Division Street. Burial services will be private. A public Memorial Tribute is planned for July 30th at 3:00 p.m. at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum, open to all.
Dr. Mason's funeral services were under the auspices of The House of Richmond, Biloxi, Mississippi. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Biloxi Branch of the NAACP, P.O. Box 4149 Biloxi, Mississippi 39535-4919.
BIOGRAPHICAL [from www.thehistorymakers.com/biography/dr-gilbert-r-mason-sr-39]
INTERVIEW DATE: 11/11/2002
Gilbert R. Mason, Sr., "wade-in" activist and physician, was born in Jackson, Mississippi, on October 7, 1928. When he graduated from Jackson's Lanier High School in 1945, Mason dreamed of becoming a doctor. He earned a B.S. degree from Tennessee State University in 1949. He earned an M.D. degree from Howard University Medical School in 1954 and served a year as an intern at Homer G. Phillips Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
Mason started a family practice in Biloxi, Mississippi, in 1955. In May 1959, he led a nonviolent protest against the "whites only" section of a federally funded Gulf Coast beach. Mason's group was arrested. Subsequent "wade-ins" ignited some of the bloodiest white rioting in Mississippi history. These resulted in a successful antidiscrimination lawsuit against the state of Mississippi, the first such case filed in U.S. history. At the same time, Mason filed the first school desegregation lawsuit in the history of Biloxi, which he also won. Mason collaborated with other Mississippi NAACP activists, including Winston Hudson, Amzie Moore, Aaron Henry and Medgar Evers. He helped the NAACP join with CORE, SNCC and SCLC to form the Council of Federated Organizations (COFO). Mason played a role in COFO's massive black voter registration drive, the Freedom Summer of 1964. Mason served as president of the Mississippi NAACP for thirty-three years.
The recipient of numerous awards as a physician, Mason was recognized with a special commendation by joint resolution of the Mississippi State Legislature on March 1, 2002 for his contributions to the Biloxi Regional Medical Center. He resided in Biloxi where he was known as "the civil rights doctor" until his death on July 8, 2006.
On Sunday, July 30, 2006, the Mayor of Biloxi, Mississippi proclaimed it to be Dr. Gilbert Mason Day in Biloxi.
Selected Bibliography:
Dr. Gilbert Mason and James Patterson Smith, Blood and Ballots: A Black Doctor's Civil Rights Struggles, (University Press of Mississippi-1998).
TESTIMONIALS
BILOXI - Members of the First Missionary Baptist Church remembered Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr. on Sunday as an avid Bible scholar and a man who was earnest in his worship at the Biloxi church.
Deacon L.J. Travis, church mother Luvern Gines and others spoke about Mason following services at the church's temporary location on Main Street, about two blocks away from the damaged sanctuary that has been cleared from Esthers Boulevard.
Mason, one of the state's leading crusaders for racial equality, died Friday night after a long illness. He was 77. In his civil rights struggle, Mason is remembered as the organizer of beach wade-ins, the state's first civil disobedience. He was also a medical doctor.
Mississippi NAACP President Derrick Johnson on Saturday said "the state has five pillars who worked to ensure the discrimination of citizens of Mississippi will no longer exist, and he is one of those five. Aaron Henry, Winston Hudson, Medgar Evers, C.C. Bryant and Gilbert Mason - those are the five who fought for the freedom of Mississippi during a time when it was not popular or safe. And despite many threats on their lives they continued to fight."
Travis, deacon for 25 years, said Mason was unable to attend many services during his early years because of the hectic medical and community work schedule. But during his later years, Bible study was his favorite church activity.
Gines, who said the physician delivered all eight of her children, said Mason was sincere and strong in his faith. She never knew him to hold a church office, but the congregation provided time for him to speak at worship services and special programs.
"He would always have the last word," Gines said. "We honored him that much that we would ask him 'Do you have anything to say?'
She said he came at a time when blacks needed a doctor, and changed Biloxi for them and all people. "He changed the schools and the whole city of Biloxi. He will be missed," she said.
Church member Vonnie Travis said at one point, Mason encouraged her to take over leadership of a local Martin Luther King celebration. "He was an encourager," she said. "He was a great fan of and an excellent communicator in developing winning habits."
(The Sun Herald, July 10, 2006)
REFERENCES:
Dr. Gilbert Mason and James Patterson Smith, 'Beaches, Blood and Ballots: A Black Doctor's Civil Rights Struggles', (University Press of Mississippi: Jackson, Mississippi-1998).
The Daily Herald, 'Negro physician [while attempting to swim on Biloxi's Beach] arrested by Biloxi Police', August 18, 1960, p. 2.
The Sun Herald, 'Natalie L. Hamlar Mason', July 5, 1999.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason sr.: Coast human rights pioneer dies', July 8, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.-Mason battled for human rights', July 9, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Despite threats, Mason continued fighting for equality in Mississippi', July 10, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.: A hero in the struggle against hatred', July 11, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.', July 14, 2006, p. A4.
The Sun Herald, 'We have lost a giant of a man-Civil Rights doctor praised', July 15, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.', December 27, 2006, p. A2.
Compelled to ensure equal civil liberties for all, Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr. was a fearless patriot who often was one of the first in a group of concerned citizens that fought for soicaal change, justice and civil rights. He was commonly referred to as the "civil rights doctor" or the "drum major for freedom". Recognized for his local, state and national activism, he joined his friends and allies Aaron Henry (1922-1997) and the martyred Medgar W. Evers (1925-1963) to combat injustices in one of the nation's most notorious bastions of segregation.(from Beaches, Blood, and Ballots, A Black Doctor's Civil Rights Struggle, 1998)
Dr. Mason was a dedicated physician who was committed to quality health care and fundamental patient rights for those on the Gulf Coast and the entire State of Mississippi. he fought for "respect for the dignity of black patients and white patients alike" and for equal status of black physicians in previously all white hospitals and the medical community at large.
A focal point of his tireless legacy was to effect equal access to education in the public schools in Biloxi and all Harrison County. A tradition of segregation compelled the dynamic Dr. Mason to fight the Jim Crow school systems and to demand equal opportunity for the best possible public education for all children.
Distressed by inequality in voting rights, Dr. Mason and others pioneered political awareness among black citizens through staunch involvement with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Democratic Party. He employed every tool to establish voting rights as well as voter education programs. His fight for desegregation of the Biloxi Public Schools and spearheading the "Beach Wade Ins" were his most legendary accomplishments.
Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason, Sr. was born at home in Jackson, Mississippi, on October 7, 1928. He was the third child of Willie A. and Adeline Mason. An intellectually curious child, he was educated in public schools and was a 1945 graduate of Lanier High School in Jackson, Mississippi. He participated in Boy Scouting among many other activities and was one of the first black Mississippians to earn the rank of Eagle Scout.
At a young age of sixteen, Dr. Mason pursued an undergraduate degree at Tennessee State University, in Nashville. During his freshman year, he met and fell in love with Natalie Lorraine Hamlar of Roanoke, Virginia, whom he married in 1950. While in college, Dr. Mason became a member of Zeta Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity beginning one of his most inspiring and precious life long activities.
In 1949 he completed studies with "high distinction" earning a double degree in Chemistry and Biology with a minor in Math. Obviously, having a keen mind oriented toward science he decided to pursue a Doctor of Medicine Degree at Howard University in Washington, D.C. He graduated with honors in the spring of 1954. He completed an internship at Homer G. Phillips Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, one of the foremost post graduate training institutions for African-American physicians. In later years he was proud to earn certification as a Diplomate of the American Academy of Family Physicians and he maintained his board certification status almost until the year of his retirement.
Determined to make his home in Mississippi, Dr. Mason identified Biloxi as the place he wanted to begin his medical career. He moved with his wife and year old son, Gilbert Jr., and established a medical practice in 1955. The Masons quickly became members of First Missionary Baptist Church in Biloxi. Because of his commitment to community, he became a Scout Master (Troop 416) serving as a mentor for hundreds of young men who have gone on to achieve various successes inspired by his life. He became a member of the PTA, Masonic Lodge (33rd Degree), and Elks Lodge. With a great command and impeccable knowledge of Roberts Rules of Order he demanded proper Parliamentary Procedure in his civic activities. He often felt his most significant contribution to the community was founding the Biloxi Branch of the NAACP in 1960, of which he was president for more than 30 years.
Dr. Mason became affiliated with the Biloxi Hospital (later known as Howard Memorial) obtaining hospital privileges but was unfairly limited to courtesy status only. From 1955 to 1966 he could not participate fully as a member of the medical staff because of the traditions of segregation. In 1967, he conferred full staff privileges and would later become a member of the State Board of Health, the State Board of Medical Examiners (licensing board), and was selected chairman of the family practice section at Biloxi Regional Hospital. He practiced also at Gulf Coast Medical Center and the Select Specialty Hospital. Dr. Mason also served as a contract physician for the US Public Health Service caring for members of the Merchant Marine for many years. He practiced family medicine until his retirement in 2002 at which time he was honored by city leaders, fellow physicians, patients and those who walked with him in his struggle for equality. His son, Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason, Jr., carries on his tradition in the medical field as a primary care physician. Dr. Mason Sr.'s retirement was accelerated by his having a stroke in December 1997.
After retirement Dr. Mason remained active with the Mississippi State Board of Archives and History. He also became more active in his church through bible study and prayer meetings while sharing his intense knowledge of scripture.
In December, 2004 he had the good fortune of marrying the very loving, caring and supportive Gwendolyn L. Anderson which renewed his spirit and gave him a new found enthusiasm for life. Dr. Mason suffered a debilitating second stoke in February 2005. After months of rehabilitation care Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason, Sr. departed this life peacefully in the early morning hours on July 8th, 2006.
Dr. Gilbert R. Mason, Sr. is preceded in death by his parents Willie Atwood Mason and Adeline Mason, his sister Rozelia Mason Stamps, his brother Willie L. Mason, and his first wife Natalie L. Hamlar Mason (1927-1999). He will be missed by his endearing wife Gwendolyn Lewis Anderson Mason, mother-in-law, Ada Lewis; sister-in-law Elnora N. Mason, niece, Carolyn Mason Stamps Varnado. He is survived by his beloved daughters Diane Marcelin, Gilda Yvette Sizor, Yolanda Marie Juzang, Angela Rose Juzang, and Gilbert, Jr.'s ex spouse Givonna Joseph; his sons Darian Anderson, (Karen), David Owens Mason, Adam Owens and Dr. Gilbert Rutledge Mason Jr.; grandchildren Aria Mason, Darian Jr. and Adarian Anderson, Alejandro Castillo, Masai and Julian Marcelin, Jordan Mason Sizor and Nigel Rutledge Sizor, Tai Juzang-McFadden, Jaalon and English Juzang Pratt. He will be missed by a host of various great uncles, great aunts, great cousins, uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, niece and nephew-in-laws, brother and sisters-in-law and adoring step-children and their spouses.
Visitation for the public will be Friday, July 14, 2006, from 3:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Sanctuary of Greater St. John, AME Church, Biloxi, Mississippi, 551 Division Street. Burial services will be private. A public Memorial Tribute is planned for July 30th at 3:00 p.m. at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum, open to all.
Dr. Mason's funeral services were under the auspices of The House of Richmond, Biloxi, Mississippi. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Biloxi Branch of the NAACP, P.O. Box 4149 Biloxi, Mississippi 39535-4919.
BIOGRAPHICAL [from www.thehistorymakers.com/biography/dr-gilbert-r-mason-sr-39]
INTERVIEW DATE: 11/11/2002
Gilbert R. Mason, Sr., "wade-in" activist and physician, was born in Jackson, Mississippi, on October 7, 1928. When he graduated from Jackson's Lanier High School in 1945, Mason dreamed of becoming a doctor. He earned a B.S. degree from Tennessee State University in 1949. He earned an M.D. degree from Howard University Medical School in 1954 and served a year as an intern at Homer G. Phillips Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
Mason started a family practice in Biloxi, Mississippi, in 1955. In May 1959, he led a nonviolent protest against the "whites only" section of a federally funded Gulf Coast beach. Mason's group was arrested. Subsequent "wade-ins" ignited some of the bloodiest white rioting in Mississippi history. These resulted in a successful antidiscrimination lawsuit against the state of Mississippi, the first such case filed in U.S. history. At the same time, Mason filed the first school desegregation lawsuit in the history of Biloxi, which he also won. Mason collaborated with other Mississippi NAACP activists, including Winston Hudson, Amzie Moore, Aaron Henry and Medgar Evers. He helped the NAACP join with CORE, SNCC and SCLC to form the Council of Federated Organizations (COFO). Mason played a role in COFO's massive black voter registration drive, the Freedom Summer of 1964. Mason served as president of the Mississippi NAACP for thirty-three years.
The recipient of numerous awards as a physician, Mason was recognized with a special commendation by joint resolution of the Mississippi State Legislature on March 1, 2002 for his contributions to the Biloxi Regional Medical Center. He resided in Biloxi where he was known as "the civil rights doctor" until his death on July 8, 2006.
On Sunday, July 30, 2006, the Mayor of Biloxi, Mississippi proclaimed it to be Dr. Gilbert Mason Day in Biloxi.
Selected Bibliography:
Dr. Gilbert Mason and James Patterson Smith, Blood and Ballots: A Black Doctor's Civil Rights Struggles, (University Press of Mississippi-1998).
TESTIMONIALS
BILOXI - Members of the First Missionary Baptist Church remembered Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr. on Sunday as an avid Bible scholar and a man who was earnest in his worship at the Biloxi church.
Deacon L.J. Travis, church mother Luvern Gines and others spoke about Mason following services at the church's temporary location on Main Street, about two blocks away from the damaged sanctuary that has been cleared from Esthers Boulevard.
Mason, one of the state's leading crusaders for racial equality, died Friday night after a long illness. He was 77. In his civil rights struggle, Mason is remembered as the organizer of beach wade-ins, the state's first civil disobedience. He was also a medical doctor.
Mississippi NAACP President Derrick Johnson on Saturday said "the state has five pillars who worked to ensure the discrimination of citizens of Mississippi will no longer exist, and he is one of those five. Aaron Henry, Winston Hudson, Medgar Evers, C.C. Bryant and Gilbert Mason - those are the five who fought for the freedom of Mississippi during a time when it was not popular or safe. And despite many threats on their lives they continued to fight."
Travis, deacon for 25 years, said Mason was unable to attend many services during his early years because of the hectic medical and community work schedule. But during his later years, Bible study was his favorite church activity.
Gines, who said the physician delivered all eight of her children, said Mason was sincere and strong in his faith. She never knew him to hold a church office, but the congregation provided time for him to speak at worship services and special programs.
"He would always have the last word," Gines said. "We honored him that much that we would ask him 'Do you have anything to say?'
She said he came at a time when blacks needed a doctor, and changed Biloxi for them and all people. "He changed the schools and the whole city of Biloxi. He will be missed," she said.
Church member Vonnie Travis said at one point, Mason encouraged her to take over leadership of a local Martin Luther King celebration. "He was an encourager," she said. "He was a great fan of and an excellent communicator in developing winning habits."
(The Sun Herald, July 10, 2006)
REFERENCES:
Dr. Gilbert Mason and James Patterson Smith, 'Beaches, Blood and Ballots: A Black Doctor's Civil Rights Struggles', (University Press of Mississippi: Jackson, Mississippi-1998).
The Daily Herald, 'Negro physician [while attempting to swim on Biloxi's Beach] arrested by Biloxi Police', August 18, 1960, p. 2.
The Sun Herald, 'Natalie L. Hamlar Mason', July 5, 1999.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason sr.: Coast human rights pioneer dies', July 8, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.-Mason battled for human rights', July 9, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Despite threats, Mason continued fighting for equality in Mississippi', July 10, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.: A hero in the struggle against hatred', July 11, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.', July 14, 2006, p. A4.
The Sun Herald, 'We have lost a giant of a man-Civil Rights doctor praised', July 15, 2006.
The Sun Herald, 'Dr. Gilbert R. Mason Sr.', December 27, 2006, p. A2.
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