Gerald H. Bass Sr., 88, of Lynn Haven, Florida passed away Sunday, April 30, 2017 at a local hospital.

Gerald was born in Holt, Florida. He graduated from Crestview High School where he was an All American in football. Gerald worked in law enforcement in Bay County from 1956 – 1992. He graduated from the F.B.I. Academy in 1958. Gerald worked for the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and later as an Investigator for the State Attorney Office in Panama City. He was a life-long member of Hope Christian Church, West Bay, Fla. Gerald had an extraordinary love for his family and friends. He was greatly loved and respected for his deep Christian faith, moral example and great kindness to all.

He is preceded in death by son Gerald “Howie” Bass, Jr; son–in–law Larry Striplin and James A. “Tony” McGill, Sr.

He is survived by his loving wife Doris Bass; his children Wanda McGill, Rhonda Striplin, and Tonya Wagner (Bryan); grandchildren Melissa Dudley, Chad Bass (Carrie), Kyle Bass, Deliah Bass, Josh Jackson, (Tiffany), Anthony McGill, Aharon McGill (Amber), Heather Gentry (Wayne), Jessica Ceurvels, Kaitlyn Rodriguez (A.J.) and Brittney Latta (Austin).

Funeral services were held at 11 A.M. Wednesday, May 3, 2017 at Kent Forest Lawn Funeral Home with Rev. Chad Bass and Rev. David L. Van Huisen officiating. Interment followed at West Bay Cemetery. Family received friends Tuesday, May 2, 2017 at the funeral home. Expressions of sympathy may be submitted or viewed online here.