Norman Omax Bass

1931 - 2025

ROCKY MOUNT — Norman Omax Bass, age 93, passed away on Saturday, April 19, 2025. Born in Sampson County on June 14, 1931, he was the son of the late Annie Belle Herring Bass and Ammie Robertson Bass. He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Blanch Bass, Hazel Detter, Mildred Burney, Mabel Halterman, Elizabeth Estes, and Hortense Eldridge; and his brothers, Robert, Lorenzal, Paul, Harry, and Lloyd.

Norman was born in the Herring Community in Sampson County. He graduated from Herring High School and attended Wilmington College. He served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956 in post-war Germany. After returning to the U.S., he attended barber school and was a barber in Rocky Mount for many years. He later worked for Peoples Bank. His natural athletic ability led to playing basketball, golf, and bowling in community athletic programs. His upbringing on the family farm gave him a love of gardening, and he often gave friends and family beautiful flowers, plants, and fresh produce. He was a good friend and a good neighbor.

Norman is survived by his sister, Helen Bass Vann of Clinton and 21 nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends and relatives on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home, 1130 North Winstead Ave., Rocky Mount.

On Saturday, April 26, 2025, a gathering of friends and family will be held at Hickory Grove Baptist Church at 1:30 p.m., with a graveside service to follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to First Baptist Church of Rocky Mount, 200 S. Church St., Rocky Mount, NC 27804 or Hickory Grove Baptist Church, 11341 N. U.S. 421, Clinton, NC 28328.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.