Richard “Rick” Joseph Mason, age 67, a devoted father, proud Army veteran, master craftsman, and lifelong adventurer, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, surrounded by his loving family in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Rick was born on November 23, 1958, in Bellaire, Ohio, to Dorothy Mason and the late Denzil Mason. He spent much of his childhood growing up in Arizona and graduated from Marcos de Niza High School in 1977 before answering the call to serve his country.

Following graduation, Rick enlisted in the United States Army, serving as front-line infantry in the elite 82nd Airborne Division. As an “All-American” paratrooper, he embodied the division’s legendary courage, high discipline, physical fitness, and brave rapid-deployment spirit required to execute combat parachute assaults anywhere in the world. He earned his jump wings at the rigorous U.S. Army Basic Airborne Course at Fort Benning Georgia, and went on to jump out of airplanes hundreds of times during his time in service. Wearing the “AA” patch was among the proudest achievements of his life, and the tight-knit brotherhood and values he found at Fort Bragg stayed with him forever.

Upon returning to civilian life, Rick brought that same dedication and strong work ethic to his 35-year career as a carpenter, framing houses and building homes with precision and pride. A master craftsman, he was part of the iconic revamping of the Las Vegas Strip, including work on Harrah’s and the MGM Grand hotels. He later became a foreman, leading framing crews in Arizona for more than 15 years and helping build much of the East Valley of the Phoenix area. In 2000, he moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, where he continued his skilled craftsmanship until 2015. A man of deep faith, he built his own life on a strong foundation, living as a God-loving man whose daily life was defined by integrity and hard work.

Rick was a man who truly devoured life and chased adventure. He rafted the rapids of the Grand Canyon, cross-country skied through the mountains of Colorado, bungee jumped, skydived, and explored the ocean as a certified scuba diver. At home, he was the ultimate grill master, happiest when cooking up a feast for those he loved. He embraced life fully and inspired others to do the same.

Later in life, one of Rick’s greatest passions was spending time on the Little Red River in Heber Springs, Arkansas. Above all, his absolute favorite thing to do was packing up for fishing trips, spending quiet days on the water surrounded by his closest buddies and his son. Together, they spent countless hours making memories, telling stories, and enjoying the peace, beauty, and quiet strength of the river and the surrounding trees. Those moments in nature brought him true happiness.

Rick’s greatest joy and proudest achievement was his family. He was a deeply involved, hands-on father who spent years on the sidelines coaching his children’s sports teams, imparting lessons of teamwork, faith, encouragement, and grit. His devotion to his family was characterized by a selfless, dedicated, and unwavering love. Rick was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 30 years, Vicky Mason; his brother, Danny Mason; and his sister, Joyce Sullivan.

He leaves behind a rich legacy of love and adventure through his four children: Joseph Mason, Jennifer Carrasco, Jacqueline Carpenter, and Chandler Mason. He was also a proud granddad to five cherished grandchildren: Madeline, Taytum, Lucy, Harper, and Hudson. As a grandfather, he held a special love in his heart for each of them, desiring deeply to see them succeed in school and in sports. His family prays that they will always remember those special times spent with him, and that their love for him will endure forever.

Rick is also survived by his loving mother, Dorothy Mason; his brother, Kenneth Mason; along with many extended family members, lifelong fishing buddies, and close friends.

Rick was loved by many. He was an amazing man, a true role model, a loyal friend, and quite simply, a great person. He will be deeply missed, but his fearless heart and master craftsmanship will live on forever. He has taken his final jump into the horizon, resting secure in the arms of his Creator.

“Airborne All the Way.”

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com