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Marian Elizabeth Mason (Bates)

Born: 12/19/1935
Died: 3/13/2026
Age: 90
Community: Funeral service at St. John Vianney, Flint, MI

In Loving Memory of Marian Elizabeth Mason (Bates)
December 19, 1935 – March 13, 2026

Marian Elizabeth Mason (Bates), 90, passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026, in Flint, Michigan surrounded by her family and friends. Mass of Christian Burial will be held
11:00 AM, Friday, March 20, 2026, at St. John Vianney Church, 2415 Bagley St, Flint, MI 48504. Family will receive visitors from 10:00 AM until the start of the service. Fr. Matthew Bonk officiating.
Born in Mobile, Alabama, to Clifton and Rebecca Bates, Marian grew up as the eldest daughter among five siblings: Ethestine, Clifton, John (Sonny), Dyann, and Cleophus.
A Life of Love and Legacy
While attending Central High School as a spirited majorette, Marian met the love of her life, Theron Mason—a drum major for Mobile County Training School. The two wed in Flint on July 20, 1959, and shared a beautiful life together until Theron’s passing in 2016.
Marian was a devoted mother to Charlotte Rebecca "Becky" Slaughter, never missing a ballet lesson or recital. As a grandmother, she was a foundational presence in the life of Loreal Elizabeth Mason, spending countless hours helping raise her with unwavering love.
Faith and Service
A dedicated member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Marian served her community through teaching Sunday School and organizing funeral luncheons. Her commitment to education extended into her career; she served as a beloved Teacher’s Aide for Beecher Public Schools for over 30 years.
A Creative Spirit
Marian’s heart was often found in her kitchen or her craft room. She was a master of Southern staples like macaroni and cheese and greens, and her "Fabulous Dessert" and Pina Colada Cake were legendary. Beyond her priceless recipe collection, she was a gifted artist who expressed her love through:
* Hand-painted porcelain dolls and ceramics
* Hand-sewn clothes and crocheted quilts
* Her signature miniature Christmas trees
Family and Friends
Marian was preceded in death by: Her husband, Theron Mason; parents, Clifton and Rebecca Bates; siblings, Ethestine, Clifton, John, Dyann, and Cleophus; and parents-in-law, Tom and Charlotte Perkins, “Teola”, Beverly Parker, and Sally Woodbeck.
She is survived by:
Her daughter, Charlotte Rebecca Slaughter; son-n-law, Todd Slaughter; granddaughter, Loreal Elizabeth Mason; great-granddaughter, Charlotte Lewlynn Ryle; and co-grandmothers Delores Harrison and Rose Osmundson. She also leaves behind nieces Gia King & La Leita Bates; relatives Mike & Patsy Turner; Marilyn & Kim Stepney; Alicia Everett, Joanie Carlton, Joe & Pat Edwards, and dear friends Beverly Weisse, Theresa & Kelly Medley, Thelma Watson, Margaret Woodbeck, Lara Nkume, Linda Duggan, Threasa Cason, Diane & Lloyd Anderson, Ganiel Williams, Alicia Williams, Donta Boose, and a host of extended family and friends.
One of Marian’s favorite sayings was:"The Lord is in Control, it is Well with my Soul. Worry looks around, Sorry looks back, and Faith looks up—and we’re going to Keep the Faith! Okay?!"
During this difficult time, we remember her wisdom and depend on God’s strength. We find comfort knowing she is in God’s loving arms, restored to total health. We love you dearly, Mom; you will be deeply missed!
Copyright © 2026 Direct Obits, LLC

  Dodds Dumanois Funeral Home
901 Garland St.
Flint, MI 48503

Phone: (810) 232-0187

Web Site: http://www.dodds-dumanois.com

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Visitation
Date:   3/20/2026
Time:   10:00 AM
Family will receive visitors from 10:00 AM until the start of the service.
 
Funeral Service
Date:   3/20/2026
Time:   11:00 AM
 
Location:   St. John Vianney Catholic Church
2415 Bagley
Flint, MI 48504

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Official:   Father Matthew Bonk

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