April 1, 2025, 78, Lucama —

Roland “RJ” Jonathan Bass, 78, passed away on April 1, 2025 at UNC Chapel Hill. Born in Wilson County on November 25, 1946, he was the son of the late Irma Jesse Bass and Annie Lee Capps Bass.

RJ was a man who found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved nothing more than casting a line and patiently waiting for a bite. When he was not by the water, you could find him cruising around in his golf cart, soaking in the scenery and the warmth of the sun. He had a keen eye for nature, always delighted to spot deer grazing in the fields or a colorful array of birds flitting through the trees. His connection to the land extended to his work in tobacco, a job that grounded him in the rhythms of the seasons and the satisfaction of working with his hands.

RJ was survived by his son, Steve Bass and wife, Sandra; his grandchildren, Trent Bass, Tyler Bass and Aselin Webb; his great-grandchildren, Rhett Bass, Walt Bass, Jericho Webb, and Jonah Webb; and his brother, Lee Bass.

In addition to his parents, RJ was preceded in death by his son, Dwight Bass and sister, Eloise Coletrain.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 5, 2025 from 2:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. at Kenly Funeral Service. A graveside service to honor RJ’s life will be held at 4:00 p.m. in the Bass Family Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kenly Funeral Service.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.kenlyfs.com.