Billy Ray Bass

Billy Ray Bass,78, of Rockford, IL departed this earthly life Friday February 25, 2022 surrounded by his family. He was born June 13, 1943 in Harrisville, Mississippi. He was the eldest son of Sylvester and Dessie Ree (Pendleton) Bass. Billy Ray lived in Rockford since the age of 3 years old. He married the former Joyce Wells and of this union 2 children were born. He then married Cassie Graham Holden.
Billy Ray was employed by National Lock Hardware for 18 years and AAA Gaston Company for 22 years before retiring. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy serving on the USS Brough (DE 148) stationed at Key West, Florida. Billy Ray was a former member of Bethel Baptist Church. He attended East High School and obtained his High School Diploma while serving in the U.S. Navy.
Billy Ray leaves to cherish many memories; 2 daughters Pastor Karla (Jorge) Garcia, Justine Green-Johnson (Michael Johnson) 1 son Brian (Judy) Bass and special son Jermaine Holden all of Rockford. 5 granddaughters Ashley Hearn of Milwaukee, WI. Lindsey Hearn, Jordan Ferro, Ayana Johnson, Jada Johnson of Rockford, IL. 5 grandsons Brandon Hearn, Justin Ferro, Noah Garcia, Justin Johnson, Jordan Johnson all of Rockford, IL. 11 great granchildren; 2 sisters Etta Jean(Ronnie) Martin, Joyce Elaine (Gerald) Cain, 1 brother Kenneth Duane Bass; host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends; Special friend Ollie Tennin. He was predeceased by his parents, twin infant babies; brother William James Bass. A special thank you to the former Rockford Supportive Living Dustin Toney RN, the nursing staff at Rock River Health Care; the medical and nursing staff at UW Health Swedish American Hospital.

Visitation will be held 5:00-7:00 pm Thursday March 10, 2022, and 10:00 -11:00 Friday March 11, 2022 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home 1860 South Mulford Road Rockford IL, Celebration of Life Friday March 11, 2022 11:00 am at the funeral home Burial in Greenwood Cemetary Rockford, IL with Military Honors. To send online condolences, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com