In Loving Memory of Mr. Bennie James Mastin
On January 23, 2024, Mr. Bennie James Mastin was called home with his wife loving wife Gladys and devoted sister Cleazell by his side. Mr. Bennie James Mastin was born on April 14, 1945, in Leighton, Alabama, and was the beloved son of the late Cleo Mastin and Eddie Jean Mastin. He grew up in Leighton and attended Leighton Training School, where he completed his education in 1963.
During his high school years, Mr. Mastin showcased his athletic skills by playing basketball. Additionally, he played the trombone in the school band.
At an early age, Mr. Mastin accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior. Under the guidance of the late Reverend Billy Buford, he was ordained as a deacon, serving his church community of Galilee Missionary Baptist Church faithfully as the chairman of the deacon board and a member of the finance committee.
On June 25, 1965, Mr. Mastin married the love of his life, Gladys Hampton, who he affectionally called “Bae.” Their love and companionship endured for 58 years, creating a strong bond and 4 beautiful sons.
Mr. Mastin was a trailblazer in his career, becoming the first Black painter at Labor Local 1293. He took great pride in his work and was highly respected by his colleagues.
Outside of work, Mr. Mastin had various hobbies that brought him joy and fulfillment. He was an avid tennis player and found solace in tending to his garden and mowing his lawn. Known for his kind and generous nature, he often assisted his neighbors by lending a helping hand. One of his favorite pastimes was spending time with his friends, known as “The Apple Dumpling Gang”. Together, they actively gave back to the community and provided financial support to those in need.
Throughout his life, Mr. Mastin worked at several notable companies, including TVA, Boeing, Reynolds, Browns Ferry, and Colbert Steam Plant. He was also enlisted in the United States Navy in 1963 and honorably discharged. His dedication and hard work left a lasting impact on his colleagues and the organizations he served.
Mr. Mastin is survived by his loving wife, Gladys Mastin, and their two sons, Warrick Mastin(Jacinta) and Chris Mastin(Bridget). He was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.
He is also survived by his siblings, Cleazell B. Roberson, Steven Mastin, Lenden Mastin, Judy Thompson, and Eddie Mastin. Their bond as a family was strong, and they shared many cherished memories together.
Mr. Mastin was preceded in death by his mother, Cleo Mastin and father Eddie Jean Mastin, as well as his grandmother Ida Carter, sisters Blondell Mastin and Dorothy Jean Mastin, and sons Bernard Mastin and Michael W. Mastin.
Bennie James will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His kind heart, dedication to service, and unwavering faith have left a life long mark on the lives of those he touched. May his soul rest with our Father in eternal peace.
