Marjorie O. Mason

Marjorie Oleta Mason,

Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, Great-Great Grandmother

Majorie was born on the island of Barbados, West Indies (a/k/a “The Land of Flying Fish”) to Charles and Josephine Brathwaite on February 6, 1930. She was the youngest of their two children. She was raised in a tiny house in Christ Church with her mother, sister, and cousins, which was filled with the scent of traditional Bajan Cuisine. It is there that she learned from her mother, life lessons and the art of cooking and baking Bajan Cuisine, particularly Fruit Cake (aka Black Cake). She received her formal education in Barbados.

In January of 1960, she immigrated to the United States following her sister, the late Janice V. Brathwaite to Brooklyn. She often recalled her flight from the tropical island; the excitement and joy she experienced as the plane flew into New York City, as its lights twinkled in the distance below, welcoming her to her new, cold and snow-covered home. Later that year, she met her husband, the late Wesley C. Mason, Jr., at the Barbados Sons and Daughters Dance. Wesley, though born in New York, was raised on the island of Barbados in St. Phillip. Per family folklore, he laid eyes on Majorie as a young woman when she visited a cousin who lived in St. Philip. As the story goes, he told one of his cousins that “he was going to marry that girl.” And so, he did on August 12, 1961.

Majorie, an excellent typist, put her skills to good use by working for several companies before taking a position with the New York City Board of Education. She was well-liked by her supervisors and co-workers. She took pride in her work, which was appreciated by her supervisors. Her co-workers appreciated her directness and her baking skills as she would often share warm loaves of coconut bread, pineapple cake, and at Christmas, slices of Fruit Cake. From them, she earned their respect and her nickname “Magic.” She retired in the 90’s and stayed in touch with several of her supervisors and co-workers

Majorie enjoyed shopping and traveling. She hosted family gatherings at Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, where all were welcome to share food, drinks, gossip and a game of Whist.

Majorie is survived by her children, Reminston, Gail, Pauline, and Eustace; grandchildren, Renee, Reminston Jr., and Jasmine; great-grandchildren, Tatiana, Reana, Remy, and Ayana; and great-great-grandchildren, R’Zaria and Ramir.

Majorie will be missed, but we take comfort in the fact that she rests peacefully now, after a long life well lived, and that she will never leave our hearts    

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