Rickey L Bass

Rickey L. Bass, 70, passed away on August 9, 2025, at Shands in Gainesville, FL. Born on August 6, 1955, in LaFayette, Georgia, he lived in nearby Trion before moving to Florida during Jr High. He graduated from Wakulla High in 1973. Rickey lived a life marked by dedication to his work, his family & friends, and the simple joys of hands-on craftsmanship.

Rickey began his professional journey working at Woolco, the Newport Shipyard, and teaching welding at Lively Technical College, where he shared his skills and knowledge with aspiring tradespeople. His career really took off with McKenzie Tank Lines, where he made significant contributions-including designing an improved fuel tank trailer and implementing a plan that helped safely relocate fuel storage tanks further from the banks of the St. Marks River. In the later years of his career, Rickey served as a supervisor of inspectors for HSB across the Southeast.

Outside of work, Rickey found joy in fishing, tending to his yard & garden, tinkering in his workshop, playing guitar, and giving his grandson rides on the tractor. He embraced activities that allowed him to connect with nature and create with his hands.

Rickey is survived by his daughter Crystal Bass Monroe & her husband Chad + grandson Colin of Nashville, Tennessee; his son Justin Bass of Colquitt, Georgia; sister Vivian Mooney & her husband Jim of Jefferson City, Missouri; half-sister Earlene Bass Yonas of Lakeland, Florida; aunt Betty Day of Griffin, Georgia; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will remember him fondly.

He was preceded in death by his mother Florence Gayton Bass; father Earl Bass; and half-sister Barbara.

May Rickey's memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as a lasting tribute to a life well lived through hard work and quiet devotion. A Celebration of Life will be held on October 18, 2025, from 03:00 PM to 06:00 PM at Crawfordville Women's Club 64 Ochlockonee St. Please bring a story about Rickey to share! In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to St. Jude’s in my father's name.