News Summary
Rick Bass, a beloved figure in Jackson, MS, passed away peacefully at the age of 78. Known for his warmth and dedication, Bass left a lasting impact on family and friends. His life journey included a successful law career and a vibrant family life. Surrounded by loved ones during his final days, he was celebrated for his mentorship in the legal field and beloved community involvement.
Jackson, MS – Long-time resident Rick Bass, also known as Ross Frederick Bass, Jr., passed away peacefully at the age of 78 on May 29, 2025. Surrounded by family, he spent his final days at Atria Memory Care in Katy, Texas, having been a resident there for a year and a half following a debilitating stroke in February 2023.
Throughout his health struggles, Bass maintained a strong connection with family and friends in the Jackson area, who regularly visited and called to check in on him. He had expressed a strong desire to work with physical therapists in hopes of returning home and continuing to play tennis, culminating his passion until the end of his life.
Bass was a cherished figure at Atria, where he endeared himself to both staff and fellow residents, earning the affectionate nickname “Dad.” His warm personality and engaging nature created lasting bonds within the community.
Early Life and Education
Bass was born on August 14, 1946, in Jackson, Mississippi, as the eldest child of Betty Jo Holcomb Bass and physician Ross F. Bass, M.D. During his early childhood, he lived in various cities including Baldwyn, New Orleans, and Falls Church before his family eventually settled back in Jackson.
He attended multiple schools in the Jackson Public School system, graduating from Murrah High School in 1964. At the age of six, Bass contracted polio, which led him to recuperate in a Vicksburg sanatorium. This challenging experience ignited a lifelong passion for reading and puzzles.
Higher Education and Law Career
Bass commenced his higher education at Vanderbilt University, initially majoring in pre-med before transitioning to a double major in English and history. He later earned a baseball scholarship to Belhaven University where he graduated with distinction.
After college, Bass served as an officer in the medical corps of the National Guard. He married Janie Shiel, a fellow Belhaven graduate, in 1969, and they welcomed three children: Susan, Rick III, and Bonnie. He continued his education at Ole Miss Law School, where he graduated with distinction in 1973, serving as editor-in-chief of the law journal.
Launching his legal career, Bass became one of the first Ole Miss law graduates to be recruited by a prestigious out-of-state firm, starting at the Gambrell firm in Atlanta before returning to Jackson in 1975. He joined the Watkins Ludlam firm as a partner and went on to co-found the litigation boutique firm Jones Mockbee & Bass.
Professional Legacy
Rick Bass was celebrated as a highly respected commercial litigator known for his integrity and dedication to pro bono work. He played a significant role in mentoring younger lawyers, imparting his knowledge of trial practice, and was devoted to upholding the dignity of every individual.
Outside of his legal career, Bass enjoyed coaching his children’s sports teams and cherished summer vacations at Pickwick Lake. He was also a devoted fan of the Ole Miss Rebels.
Family and Final Arrangements
Bass is survived by his children: Susan Bass from Oregon, Rick Bass from Colorado, and Bonnie Kirkland Bass Austin from Texas. He leaves behind three grandchildren: Anabelle and Max Austin, and Roman Bass. He was preceded in death by his brother Robert, who passed away less than three years earlier, and is survived by his sister, Elizabeth Kirkland Bass Raulston, along with various nieces and extended family members.
Bass’s remains will be interred in the Northminster Baptist Church Columbarium, where he was a charter member. A celebration of his life is planned for the fall, and those wishing to honor his memory may make memorial contributions to Northminster Baptist Church or a charity of their choice.
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Additional Resources
- Northside Sun
- Clarion Ledger: Rick Bass Interview
- WJTV: Pike County Man Arrested
- Ott and Lee Funeral Home
- Bass Magazine
- Wikipedia: Rick Bass
- Google Search: Rick Bass
- Google Scholar: Rick Bass
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rick Bass
- Google News: Rick Bass
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