Thelma Elaine (DeMotte) Mason

Thelma Elaine Mason, age 95, of Waterford, Michigan, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2026. She was born on May 5, 1930, in Pontiac, Michigan, to Benjamin and Elsie DeMotte.

After graduating from Pontiac Central High School in 1948, Thelma pursued a career in nursing, dedicating her time to caring for others in the TB ward. It was there that she met the love of her life, Jacob Mason. The two were united in marriage on March 4, 1950, and together they built a loving family and a lifetime of cherished memories. Thelma was known for her warmth, generosity, and remarkable cooking. She took great pride in preparing multi-course meals for her family, always complete with fresh salads and homemade desserts. Her kitchen was a place of comfort, laughter, and togetherness. A woman of deep and abiding faith, Thelma read her Bible from cover to cover many times and was a devoted member of Wellsprings Bible Church in White Lake, Michigan. She found great joy in sharing scripture with family, friends, neighbors, and anyone in need of encouragement. Her prayers touched countless lives. Thelma also had a passion for gardening and took immense pride in maintaining one of the most beautiful yards in her neighborhood. Even into her 90s, she could be found mowing her lawn several times a week and tending to her vibrant flower beds. Later in life, she found special joy in feeding the neighborhood birds, squirrels, cats, and any creature in need. She lovingly rescued and raised a kitten named Heaven, bottle-feeding her and giving her a home. She enjoyed dining out with loved ones, especially at The Village Place in Waterford, and had a fondness for candy and chocolate. Known for her lighthearted spirit, Thelma had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to share jokes, bringing smiles to those around her.

She is survived by her son, Mark (Cathy) Mason; her grandchildren, Jacob Mason, Sydney Mason, and Rachel (Casey) Hurst; and her great-grandchildren, Mason and Mackenzie Hurst. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 76 years, Jacob Mason; her son, Larry Mason; and her siblings, Violet (Ted) Pettit and Duke DeMotte.

Family will welcome friends on Thursday, May 7, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Coats Funeral Home in Waterford. A funeral service will take place on Friday, May 8, at 11:00 AM at the funeral home, with burial at Perry Mount Park Cemetery immediately following.

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