Keith Brian Mason, 66, of Charleston, SC, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, August 25, 2023, following a brief illness.
He was born on April 3, 1957, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to Leon “Coke” Wilson Mason and Dorcas Myers Mason and grew up the youngest of three brothers in Kernersville, NC.
Keith graduated from Lenoir-Rhyne College in Hickory, NC, with a Bachelor’s degree in Education of the Hearing Impaired, followed by Master’s degrees from the College of Charleston in Elementary Education and from the Citadel in Administration and Supervision. He spent his career in education in the greater Charleston area, first as a teacher at Ladson Elementary and then as an administrator at James Island School, before ending his tenure as the principal of Harbor View Elementary. His fellow teachers, staff, and friends remember him fondly as a dedicated educator and an advocate for every child.
Starting with his own earliest childhood school days Keith was known not only for his friendly nature and tenacity, but for his gift of gab. These qualities remained as defining personality traits throughout his life. Keith proudly embraced all of life’s roles with open arms whether he was known as husband, father, “Poppie,” brother, uncle, godfather, friend, teacher, or principal. He delighted in having authentic connections with people as he made it a point to connect and spend quality time with his loved ones. Anyone who knew Keith recognized his giving spirit. He always wanted to give generously to those he deeply loved. As an animal lover and nature enthusiast Keith was also passionate about donating to a wide variety of animal rescue organizations from local shelters to elephant rescue foundations. He enjoyed time taking in the scenic views of the mountains and often chatted about the peace he found on these trips. Throughout his life reading was a pastime that Keith enjoyed. Think of Keith as you cozy up with a good book or share a book with an eager young mind and pause to reflect on a memory you treasure of a time spent with Keith.
Keith is reunited in death with his beloved late husband, Milton Blanchett, III; his parents, Leon and Dorcas; and his brother Toby.
He is survived by his three children: Lindsay, Nicholas, and Paula and his four grandchildren who were the light of his world; his brother, Wayne (Linda), and many nieces and nephews: Angie, Debbie (Tommy), Amy (Chris), Jody, and Rodney, as well as his godson, Bryce.
A memorial service will be held at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home in West Ashley on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at 6:00 PM. The family will receive friends after the service at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home West Ashley Chapel.