John A. Bass' Obituary
John A. Bass departed this life on January 4, 2026, at the age of 81 surrounded by his loving children and caregivers. He was born on September 28, 1944, in Ft. Smith, AR, to Ezra Bass and Easel Brown Bass, both of whom preceded him in death, along with his beloved wife, Linda. John graduated from high school in Spokane, MO, in 1962, after which he continued his successful academic and basketball career at Arkansas City Junior College in Kansas from 1962 to 1964. He then went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in 1966 from Arkansas State Teacher’s College and a master’s degree in 1971 from Arkansas State University. John spent his professional career as a school administrator and coach influencing the lives of countless young people with his dedication to high academic standards and focus on athletic performance. He was an avid sportsman, always planning his next fishing trip or cheering on his beloved St. Louis Cardinals. He was bigger than life, both in his 6-foot 7-inch stature and in his expressive personality. In more ways than one, he filled up a room with his presence. John was well known as a master storyteller, often recounting details from decades prior, engaging audiences of all ages, captivating them with his delivery and intellect, charming everyone with his quick wit and uncanny ability to deliver a punchline. John accomplished many things in his 81 years, but he would tell you they all paled in comparison to the pride he had for his four children; their successes were his successes, their challenges were his challenges. From high school state championships to advanced degrees to military service, he loved nothing more than sharing the joy he felt for their accomplishments.
John is survived by one brother, Cornell Bass, of Joplin, MO; four children – Steven Bass and wife Angie of Centerton, AR; David Bass and wife Brittany of Springdale, AR; Stacey Bass of Tampa, FL; and Mandy Newman and husband Mick of Oklahoma City, OK; 9 grandchildren – Jordan, Haylee (and husband Chase) Ashleigh, Austin, Ava, Carson, Brooke, Jake, and Katie; and one great grandson Beau Everett. The family would like to recognize and extend their deepest appreciation to John’s caregivers, Robin and Maranda, who displayed endearing compassion, patience, and dedication over the last few years.
Services will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 10am at Hunt Chapel located at Pinnacle Memorial Gardens, 5930 S. Wallis Rd., Rogers, AR; graveside service will immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to the Parkinson’s Foundation in honor of John Bass to support continued research for a cure.
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