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BORN
1936
DIED
2018
Kirby Bass Obituary
Kirby was an active member, usher of the Woodville First Baptist Church and was a Christian.
He graduated from Leon High School in 1956. He was a U.S. Army veteran, having served actively for six years in numerous locations including Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. Afterwards, he had a career in state government in Tallahassee, Florida, retiring on March 1, 1993. He was active in the Florida National Guard in Tallahassee, Florida. He retired from the military as a Sergeant First Class, serving for a total of 27 years. His highest award was the bronze star; this was awarded to Kirby, after being deployed to and serving in Operation Desert Storm.
Kirby is survived by and his memory cherished in the hearts of his wife Beth Cockerham Bass of Tallahassee, Florida; daughter Cheryl Bass Hamilton (Jimmy); grandson Josh Strickland and granddaughter Natalie Westerling, all of Tallahassee, Florida; sisters Joanne Bass Cox of Havana, Florida, Betty June Bass Koval of Whitehouse, Tennessee, Nell Reinhart and Betty Westberry of Thomasville, Georgia; brothers Gene (Gaile) Bass of Havana, Florida, and Woody Harrell of Whitehouse, Tennessee. Kirby is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, and numerous friends. He was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters.
He will always be remembered by his caring nature, love of family and dear friends. Kirby had a passion for flying, soloing at the early age of 18. He was a generous man who loved life, camping, road trips, and spending time with his family and friends. Kirby loved volunteering at church and on numerous local projects. He liked joking around and having the last laugh. His beloved daughter, Cheryl, thought she was blessed with the best Dad.
A celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, May 31st, at Woodville First Baptist Church at 11 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will be in the National Cemetery in Tallahassee, Florida, at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, the American Diabetes Association, or Big Bend Hospice of Tallahassee, Florida.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Belva Gurr
March 25, 2025
I worked with Betty Westberry for many years at the phone company in operator services. She worked the 3-10:30pm shift. Every night when she got off she would say, "I´m going home to my bed!" as she walked out. She rode the cab to the Greyhound bus station to go home. When she retired Greyhound gave her a model of the bus she had ridden in for so many years. Betty was a joy to work with and a pleasure to know.
Sherry Fagg
May 31, 2018
A man that I could count on as a co-worker (former) and friend. I will forever cherish his memories. Rest in peace Kirby.
Wayne Rushing
May 30, 2018
My old friend, you now receive Heaven's reward. Rest In Peace and enjoy those wings Our Savior has for you. My prayers and condolences to your loved ones and your many other friends left here on earth.
Dianne Kennedy
May 30, 2018
Dear Beth and family, I've known Kirby since 2002 when I became his neighbor. He was my first neighbor that I met, as you can imaging knowing him. He was so friendly and kind to all his neighbors. He had a true love for his fellow neighbors, his community and his country. I have been blessed to have him as my friend for so many years. . .... Thank you Kirby for all the laughter, support and wisdom you shared with me and my boys over the years. You will be greatly missed.
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Deborah Messer McFadden & Mike McFadden
May 29, 2018
Beth, Gene & Gail,
We are so shocked and very sorry to learn of Kirby's passing from a short illness. He was always so friendly and kind. He will be missed. Our condolences to you & your families.
Vernell Strumski
May 29, 2018
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998
Alyson (Davis) Motes
May 29, 2018
Cheryl, I'm so sorry to hear about your dad passing. I worked with Kirby when he worked at AHCA and he was a true gentleman and joy to be around. May God bless you during this difficult time and bring you peach and strength.
Sheena Taff Cooper
May 29, 2018
Beth and family, I am so sorry to have read of Mr.Kirby's passing and your loss. My heart goes out to you
"Mr. Bass" was loved by many and will be missed. with love, sheena
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700 Timberlane Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312
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