Mrs. Ella L. Mason

Mrs. Ella L. Mason, 97, beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, friend, and pillar of her community, departed this life peacefully on September 18, 2026, surrounded by unwavering love. Born March 1, 1929, in Hopehill, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late Curtis E. & Grace M. Lee. Ella was the last of her immediate family.

Ella graduated from Lincoln High School in 1946. That same summer, she started working at the Buckeystown Canning Factory. From there she went to do domestic work in Montgomery County, Maryland, where she worked there for several years. She then joined the Frederick County Health Department with a group from Johns Hopkins Hospital called Project Early Bird, a program that tested 4 and 5 year olds born during the German measles outbreak. When the program ended, she began working at the Frederick County Board of Education as an Instructional Assistant. She held the position for 25 years and 1 month, working in various schools throughout Frederick County.

Ella was a member of Hopehill United Methodist Church. She became the church school superintendent, and she enjoyed working with children. She also was the Financial Secretary, sang in the church choir, served as a trustee, and worked with the Mission Team. She was a member of the Former United Methodist Women, serving as President and Treasurer.

Ella was a member of the Hope Chapter #52 of Eastern Stars; she served as Secretary. She enjoyed going to the Frederick Senior Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays, participating in ceramic, computer classes, bingo, and listening to different speakers. She was a member of the Red Hatters Group (Chatty Hatters). She had an affection for making flower arrangements and writing poems. She enjoyed reading her Bible and doing word searches at night.

In 1983, she married the Late Rev. James Sherman Mason Sr. Ella took great dignity in being a Pastor’s wife.

Ella is survived by her 3 devoted children, Wayne Lee (Robin), Robin Kelley and Grace Lee; 3 grandchildren, Nathan Kelley (Sara), Brennon Lee and Amber Kelley (Fiancé, Jason); 5 great-grandchildren, Isabella, Aaliyah, Savanna, Jalen and Kaia; exceptional nieces, Darlene Lee-Hill and Annise L. Jackson; paternal aunt, Charlotte Gardner; two sisters-in-law, Faye Lee and Janice Brown; beloved Mason Family and a host of devoted caring nieces, nephews, family and friends. Faithful canine companion, Sophia

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. & Mrs. Curtis Lee; husband, Rev. James Sherman Mason, Sr.; sisters, Ruth Jackson, Mazie Hill, brothers, Garland Brown and John C. Lee and Bonus Son-Rev. J. Sherman Mason Jr.