Richard "Steve" Bass

“To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” On Monday, April 13, 2020, our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and dear friend, Richard Stephen “Steve” Bass passed from this world and entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Steve’s journey here on earth began on September 22, 1942 to the late A. Z. and Elsie L. Bass.  In addition to his parents, Steve was preceded in death by his two brothers, Kenneth and Sammy Bass.

He is survived by his devoted wife of almost 55 years, Patricia R. “Pat” Bass; children, Denise Wellar (Brian) of Howard, PA, Rick Bass of Ramseur, NC, Mary Beth Bass of Greenville, SC, and Susan Bass of Howard, PA; grandchildren, Logan and Lauren; sisters, Margaret Bass of Rocky Mount, NC and Jackie Bass Varnell (Billy) of Pinetops, NC; sisters-in-law, Peggy Bass and Emily Bass, both of Rocky Mount, NC; along with a host of nieces and nephews.

He loved sports and the friendships he made during his years serving as umpire and referee for a variety of organizations.  Beginning with calling ball for the Rocky Mount Little League at age 18, Steve enjoyed a long tenure of officiating flag football, junior and high school football, basketball, volleyball, softball and baseball, including Babe Ruth Baseball. He especially loved his UNC Tarheels and Washington Redskins.

Together, Steve and Pat have enjoyed great family and fellowship as longtime members of Crossroads Baptist Church (formerly Falls Road Baptist Church).

A viewing will be held on Friday, April 17, 2020 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Crossroads Baptist Church, 3224 Benvenue Road, Rocky Mount, NC  27804. A graveside service will follow at Pineview Cemetery. Flowers are accepted or a memorial donation may be made to Crossroads Baptist Church.

A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.

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