Jerry Bass

On Monday, July 6, 2020, Jerry Allen Bass, precious child of God, died in the arms of his wife Catherine, surrounded by other beloved family members. He was born on February 24, 1948 in Dunedin, Florida, adopted at birth by James and Marie Bass. After being tragically orphaned at the age of 16, he was then adopted by his uncle and aunt, Roy and Eleanor Bass. Jerry was immensely proud to be a chosen, adopted member of the Bass family, cherished and deeply loved.

After graduation from Dunedin High School, Jerry enlisted in the US Army and subsequently served in Vietnam as a leader of a reconnaissance squad. He gained the rank of Staff Sergeant while in service. Once discharged, Jerry began a career in construction where he attained the level of master carpenter and project manager in the Clearwater, Florida area.

In 1992, Jerry joined those helping to rebuild south Florida after Hurricane Andrew. He became the Director of Construction for Habitat for Humanity in Miami where he served for 18 years until his retirement in 2010. During his years with Habitat he oversaw the building of over 800 houses so that low income families could have the privilege of home ownership. Jerry was a skilled manager adept at directing volunteers, handling more than 200 a day during most winter and spring months. He established warm and enduring relationships with Habitat homeowners and supporters over the years.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Catherine; sons, Joshua (Jennifer) and Kyle (Nikki) Bass; brothers, Robert (Christine) and Michael (Andrea) Bass; sister, Cheryl (Robert) Miller; and his precious granddaughters Ashley, Hailey and Greer Bass. Also left to mourn are Catherine’s sons, Frank and Evan (Lucy) Shepard, as well as sisters- and brothers-in law, Anne and Alesha, Sam and Teresa, and Joe and Ellen Manning.

The memorial service and burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2020 at the Chattanooga National Cemetery. Masks will be required for those who attend.

Memorial donations may be made to Operation Freedom Dogs, Inc. (209 Walker Hollow Rd., Flintstone, GA 30725) who provides service dogs for combat veterans with PTSD or to an organization of your choice.

Arrangements entrusted to Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services Franklin -Strickland Chapel, 1724 McCallie Avenue, Chattanooga, TN, 37404, 423-265-4414. Please visit our website to share your memories: www.advantagefranklin-strickland.com