Tom Mason

After a valiant battle against pancreatic cancer, Tom’s beautiful spirit was released from his embattled body early Sunday morning, February 21st. He died in his husband’s weary arms and is now free to explore the universe on his way to become our protective angel on the other side. There he will be greeted by his Papa and others that have passed before him.

Born into the lucky arms of Tom and Mary Joy Mason on May 8, 1962, Tom enjoyed his early childhood and teenage years growing up in Harlingen, Texas alongside his adoring big sister, Holly. He was her rock, cheerleader, and her best friend; the constant that would always be there for her. Tom later attended SMU, where he graduated with a degree in Finance. Upon graduation, he dazzled his way to becoming the National Director of Ryan LLC, the largest provider for property tax protest services in the US. With his quick wit, charming personality, heart-stopping good looks, and that devilish grin, he made an everlasting impression on everyone he encountered.

Although he and Keith Cox had known each other for over 25 years, their love story began in 2012. It was truly a love story for the ages that inspired both family and friends. Shortly after reconnecting through Facebook, they threw caution to the wind and headed back to his birthplace to continue his father’s legacy and take over the family business, Mason & Company, a prominent real estate and property management company. The small conservative town welcomed them with open arms. It is there that they left an indelible mark on the community by purchasing apartment complexes and restoring historic buildings. Keith and Tommy were finally married on June 12, 2020, the same date that celebrates the anniversary of both Keith’s parents and grandparents.

After receiving a gut-wrenching diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, they set out on a long and arduous journey to seek the best treatment possible. No stone was left unturned. Many followed his struggles on Facebook (#TommyStrong) where he inspired others with his perpetual optimism. The overwhelming love and support he received is a true testament to the man he was. Unfortunately, their journey ended on February 21st and he followed in the path of his iconic heroes Alex Trebek, Senator John Lewis, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, all who succumbed to this deadly disease this past year. He was so thankful to them for their inspiration and raising awareness for pancreatic cancer.

Tom was a well-rounded and grounded guy who enjoyed fine arts, travelling, and was an avid sports fan. He was a physical fitness fanatic and loved weight training with his gym family. He loved spending time at their home on Lake Travis where he enjoyed endless sunsets and sailboats while entertaining friends and family.

He will be so missed by his mother and sister, his mother-in-law Paula Cox (who referred to him as Tommisito) and brothers-in-law Paul Cox and Sammy Cox. He was the proud Uncle Tommy to FIVE gorgeous nieces: Kelsey Omick, Kendall Omick, Kylee Cox, Taylor Cox, and Sofia Cox. He also leaves behind his 6 fur babies: Beans, Cooper, Marlie, Mamma Kitty, Baby Kitty, and Itty Bitty Fargo Kitty.

We know that everyone would like a chance to say goodbye with a formal ceremony, however, Tommy would not want to put anyone’s health in jeopardy. A celebration of life will likely take place after the pandemic. Until then, Keith asks that everyone take a moment and celebrate his life in their own personal way: raise a glass, cherish a fond memory, or do a kind gesture for someone in his name. We hope that everyone can put their differences aside and realize that love is what matters most. So, do Keith and Tommy a favor and hug a loved one extra tight tonight and think of him.  Rather than sending flowers, Tommy would have preferred people to make a small donation to the National Pancreatic Cancer Network: www.pancan.org

A family celebration will also be held later in his favorite place, Hawaii. There, Keith and Holly will take a helicopter ride to be with his spirit above, where his ashes will be released as they say their final good-bye. Tommy would like that!

It has been Keith’s honor to be his husband and caring for Tommy will always be Keith’s biggest accomplishment. As we struggle to make sense of such a beautiful man’s untimely passing during these trying times, we must realize what is most important in life: for it is love, not politics, that can unite such a divisive nation.

People disappear from our lives but not our hearts. There must be a force stronger than death, and that is love. Sweet dreams, Tommy.

“TO LIVE IN HEARTS

WE LEAVE BEHIND

IS NOT TO DIE.”

-Thomas Campbell