Midshipman First Class Mason Carter Halsey

Midshipman First Class Mason C. Halsey, age 22 of Gulfport, MS passed away January 1, 2024.

Mason was born on August 15, 2001, to Thane and Carla Halsey of Gulfport, MS. He graduated from West Harrison High School in 2020. While in high school Mason achieved numerous awards and achievements such as high honors, student body president, National Honor Society president, along with Class of 2020 Hall of Fame. Mason was a member of the varsity swim and soccer teams and co-ed cheer team.

Upon graduation Mason continued his education at the United Stated Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. Mason was a member of the USNA class of 2024 pursuing a degree in Political Science. Mason was selected to serve as a Surface Warfare Officer (SWO). He was a member of the USNA co-ed spirit team and body building team. Mason held several positions during his time at the Academy including Company Wardroom and Supply Officer, Weapons Detail Rifle Commander, and Squad Leader.

Mason was passionate about serving his country and continuing the military heritage of his family. Admiral William “Bull” Halsey, US Navy, was a huge inspiration to Mason. He often quoted the Admiral’s infamous words, “Hit hard. Hit fast. Hit often.”

Mason’s greatest passion was his family and friends. He never met a stranger and made all those around him feel welcomed. He loved, encouraged, mentored, and counseled. He was a true “Sailor’s Sailor.”  He was a leader and supporter of others. He possessed a compelling and charismatic personality that people were drawn to. Mason lit up the room with his bright blue eyes and signature “smirk.”  He was the life of the party with his personality and zest for life. He was a beacon of light to all those he met. Mason has touched the lives of countless people and was a hero to many. In Mason’s 22 years of life, he has left a legacy of his own that will forever live in the hearts of all those he met along the way. If you knew him, you loved him.

Mason is proceeded in death by his paternal grandparents, Dale and Beverly Halsey; paternal and maternal, great grandparents.

Mason is survived by his parents, Thane and Carla Halsey of Gulfport, MS; brother Trevon Halsey and girlfriend Jeannie Downs; sister, Caitlin and husband Jeffry Howell. Mason is also survived by grandparents, Dallas and Paulette Hays and Anna Halsey; aunts, Barbara (Eddie) Saxion, Meaghan McKenzie, Donya Johnson, and Lisa Plotkin. He also leaves behind niece, McKenzie Halsey and nephews, Lucas Halsey and Haden Whitfield; along with cousins Daylon Parker, Stevie Saxion, Sarah McKenzie, Emily Sharp, Abigal McKenzie; and countless friends.

Visitation will be from 10:30am until 12:30pm, Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport. The funeral service will follow at 12:30pm with burial at Biloxi National Cemetery.  

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is serving the family.