WILMINGTON — Robert (Bob) Turner Bass, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed public servant, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, in Wilmington, North Carolina at the age of 73.
Born on March 9, 1953, in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, he grew up in the community of Seaboard, North Carolina in Northampton County. Bob lived a life marked by dedication to his family, his work, and his community.
Bob earned his undergraduate degree at North Carolina State University, Class of 1975, and pursued further education at the University of Michigan, earning a Master’s degree. His academic diligence laid the foundation for a remarkable career with the United States Department of Agriculture for more than 42 years, where he became a member of the Senior Executive Service, earning the respect of colleagues and peers alike before retiring with distinction. After his retirement he and his wife, Lynda, moved to the Brunswick Forest Community in Leland, North Carolina.
Bob’s life was enriched not only by his professional achievements but also by the joy he found in personal pursuits. He and his beloved wife, Lynda Bass, shared a passion for travel, achieving the remarkable feat of visiting all seven continents and all 50 states. An avid golfer, Bob enjoyed the camaraderie and challenge the sport offered. Bob was the type of person who never knew a stranger and was a friend to all.
A man of strong faith, Bob was an active member of Pine Valley Methodist Church in Wilmington, where he formed lasting friendships and contributed to his church community’s fellowship and growth.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Russell Lee Bass and Annie Cornelia Taylor Bass; his brother David Bass and sister-in-law Patti.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication that will be cherished by his surviving family: his devoted wife of 23 years, Lynda Bass; his son, Justin Bass, and wife Mandy, and grandchildren Connor, Corey, and Caylee of Moseley, Virginia; his daughter, Allison Scott, and husband Kevin, and grandchildren Marshall and Josephine of Malvern, Pennsylvania. He is also survived by his brother Gary Bass and wife Gail, sister Jennifer Bolton and husband Pat, along with extended family and cherished friends.
To honor Bob’s life and legacy, a Celebration of Life Ceremony is planned for 11 am Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at Pine Valley Methodist Church 3788 Shipyard Blvd., Wilmington, NC 28403. There will be a time of visitation starting at 10 am.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial gifts to the Pine Valley Methodist Church – “Make Room Initiative”, 3799 Shipyard Blvd., Wilmington, NC 28403
Though he has departed from this world, Bob’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His life was a testament to the values of hard work, integrity, compassion, and love. May he rest in peace.
