Mason James Johnson, “Bubba,” was born on August 17, 2011, to Gary and Michèlyn Johnson in Denver, Colorado. Mason lived a life filled with laughter, love, and an undeniable light that touched everyone he encountered.
Mason was a quiet, yet powerful presence and warm spirit could brighten any room. From a young age, his intelligence stood out. He was so advanced academically that he skipped a grade in elementary school, placing him in the same class as his sister Maia. Mason loved this because he told his sister she couldn’t “little brother” him anymore. Together, they were known as “the twins,” and any educator who had taught them knew they brought both brilliance and personality into the classroom.
Mason had a deep love for football that shaped much of his life. He began his journey with the Colorado Savages as a Wide Receiver and Defensive Back, helping secure two CYFL Championships in 2019 and 2020. He continued his athletic career with the Box State Hornets and later the Colorado Spillionairs, where he contributed to winning State and Regional Championships in Rocky Mountain Pop Warner. Mason’s talent earned him the honor of being selected three times to represent North Colorado in the Southwest Showcase in El Paso, Texas.
Beyond his athleticism, Mason captured hearts everywhere he went. His teammates and coaches loved him not just for his skill, but for his lovable demeanor, humor, and the joy he brought to every moment. Coach Kyle Reese, of TCO, says Mason’s time at TCO “was filled with laughter, friendship, and the kind of joy that comes from being part of a team. Whether on the field or on the road, he enjoyed those moments with his teammates and they enjoyed him. They were kids andtheywerefree.”
Off the field, Mason was creative and expressive. He enjoyed sketching and had recently developed a passion for fashion, often “flicking it up” and showcasing his style with his best friends,” his brothers”, Sean, Santi, and Bishop. He also loved gaming, eating snacks, and sharing jokes
with his siblings, creating countless memories at home.
Mason’s love for his family ran deep. As a young child, he was Mireya’s shadow, always close by her side. He was incredibly excited about the birth of his brother Massai and eagerly helped his mother with anything she needed. Massai wanted to be just like him and not only wanted to do everything his brother was doing but do it better. Mason and his sister Maia, with their Irish Twin status, often gave their educators a run for their money. Their shared humor and intelligence made them an unforgettable duo. His bond with his brother Michael was very special. They shared everything from football positions and jersey numbers to a love for gaming. Mason truly admired Michael and followed in his footsteps, and that love was mutual.
He valued his relationships with people. If he called you friend, cousin, Uncle, Aunt, brother or sister you really felt that from him. He was so spoiled the family would say, he would call his Grandmother Gwen to make her famous rice pudding and she would show up at the crack of dawn to make him two whole pans full. She would say, “anything for Mason”. The whole family held that sentiment and
Mason cherished the time spent with his father, whether on the field as his coach or on trips together through the Big H.O.M.I.E.S. mentoring program. At just 14, Mason had already grown to match his father’s height, yet he remained forever his mother’s baby. A true mama’s boy, Mason found comfort, guidance, and understanding in his mother’s presence, she was one of the few who could reach him when he needed it most.
Mason went home to be with the Lord on April 13, 2026. He is survived by his loving parents, Gary and Michèlyn Johnson; his siblings, Michael Creed, Mireya Johnson, Maia Johnson, Massai Johnson, and Sean Lewis Jr.; his grandparents, Luther Buckley IIII, Aledria Buckley, Gary Johnson Sr. (Kellie Johnson), Gwendolyn Heard, Terry Boykin Sr.; his great Mann, Martin Abbott & Ruby Abbott; his Aunts and Uncles, Jennifer Baker, Janelle Houston, Vashawn Buckley, Jocelyn Buckley (Eugene Irby), Terry Boykin II, Anthony McCraw (Jackie McCraw), NaKeisha Thomas (Antoine Thomas), Dr. Genene Duran (Brande Macheau) Genell Ellison and a large, loving family of cousins, and extended loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his grandmother Joan Katrina Mann, and his great-grandparents Jocelyn Mann, Bennie Richardson, Imogene Richardson, Donette Heard and Burnis Heard Sr.
Mason’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave so freely. We invite all who knew and loved him to honor his memory by sharing stories, photos, and moments that reflect the joy he brought into this world.
Processional
“I Need You Now” Smokey Norful
Opening Prayer
Pastor Rico Wint
Scripture Reading
Pastor Rico Wint
Musical Selection
Nakira Rivera
“His Eye Is On The Sparrow”
Acknowledgements & Obituary Reading Siobhan Dobson
A letter to our Brother Mason Maia, Sean, Bishop and Santi
Family Remarks (2 minutes)
Musical Selection
Beyonce/Heaven
Eulogy
Rev. Aledria “Lee” Buckley Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church Houston, Texas
Video Tribute
Closing Prayer
Pastor Rico Wint
Recessional
“See You Again”
