CWO (RET) Robert Whitaker “Whit” Bass, Sr. 73, of Smiths Station, Alabama, passed away on Friday, July 9, 2021, at his home in Smiths Station, Alabama.

A Celebration of Robert’s life will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday, July 13, 2021 at Vance Brooks Funeral Home – Phenix City Phenix City, Alabama, with Mayor Bubba Copeland officiating. The internment will follow at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Vance Brooks Funeral Home – Phenix City.

Robert (Whit) was born on July 10, 1947, in Columbus, GA, the son of Marion W. “Bud” Bass and Linnie “Cleo” Rogers Bass. He graduated from Jordan Vocational High School in 1965. He proudly served his country in the Georgia Army National Guard for over 30 years, including serving as shop foreman of the OMS5 on Victory Drive in Columbus, GA. Robert (Whit) continued to serve until his retirement from Civil Service with the rank of CW3. Those that knew Robert (Whit) knew he was a no non-sense person. His favorite saying was, “It is what it is.” He also called it as he saw it. Some people say, “If it was on his mind, it was on his lips”. He loved spending time with his family, tinkering around in the yard, and laughing at his fur babies, Boo and Angel. He taught his children by example how to be a man and how to take care of a spouse, and the importance of family. He will always be remembered as their Rock.

Robert (Whit) is preceded in death by Father, Marion W Bass; Mother, L. Cleo Bass Bigbee. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Sue Bass; daughter, Terry (Jeff) Shepard; son, Robbie (Christine) Bass; four granddaughters, Brianna Bass, Mary Beth (Connor) Boatner, Haley Pennington, Whitnie Bass; two grandsons, Chase Pennington, R.W. Bass; great grandson, Logan Stuker; great-granddaughter, Harper Boatner; brother, Danny Bass; sister in-law, Leslie (Ken) Murray; niece Tobie (Paul) Trudeau, nephew, Carter Bass; great-niece Cleo Trudeau, as well as several extended family and caring friends.