Thomas Eugene Bass

Thomas Eugene Bass, 89, of Bentonville passed away unexpectedly Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014, in Fayetteville. He was born Sept. 12, 1925, in Liberal, Mo., to the late Walter Eddie and Carrie Gertrude Holland Bass. He proudly served his country in the European Theatre with the U.S. Army during World War II and then again in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict. For much of his life he was active in the American Legion, including serving as commander of John E. Tracy Post 25 in Gravette, as district commander, district executive committeeman, area promoter of Boy's State and as an instructor of flag etiquette to hundreds of school children. He loved to spend time with his family traveling and fishing. For nearly 42 years he was the loving husband of Geraldine "Gerry" Bass, who preceded him in 2009. In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Schoffner; and his sister, Hazel McKay. Survivors include two daughters, Maeva (James) Selby of Bentonville and Melody (Larry) Hight of Springdale; a son, Tom Bass of Bentonville; seven grandchildren, Tony, Harmony and Justin (Lindsey) Hight, as well as Mickaela, Tristan, Trey and Dakota Selby; and two great-grandchildren, Kennie and Lillie Hight. Visitation will be Sunday, Nov. 9, from 6-8 p.m. in the chapel of Rollins Funeral Home in Rogers. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at First Baptist Church in Centerton, with interment to follow at National Cemetery in Fayetteville. Memorials are suggested to American Legion Post #25, P.O. Box 476, Gravette, AR 72736; or to the Fayetteville Veterans Home, 1125 College Ave., Fayetteville, AR 72703. Arrangements are under the care of Rollins Funeral Home in Rogers. Online condolences may be expressed at www.RollinsFuneral.com.