Erma Jean Bass

Erma Jean Bass aka Granny, beloved mother, grandmother, family member, and friend, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 30, 2026, at the age of 86. Visitation will be Saturday, October 3 from 5-9pm at Gravel Hill Baptist Church and Sunday, October 4 from 10am until time of service. Funeral service will be Sunday, October 4 at 2pm at Gravel Hill Baptist Church. Bro. Buddy Freeman and Bro. John Elliott will officiate.

Born to Mitchell Lee and Ona White Perkins, July 10, 1940. Erma is preceded in death by her parents; husband of 59 years, L.J. Bass, Sr.; two sisters, Willie Mae Barrington and Lorene Perkins; one brother, Herman Lee Perkins, Sr., son-in-law, Sherman Ward, and great-great grandson, Kyler Wayne Poe.

Those left to cherish her memory: one son, L.J. Bass, Jr. & Sylvia Perez; three daughters, Earlene Ward, Maud Evylen Bass, and Dustina Fulks & Clay; two sisters, Rachel Coram and Irene Perkins; seven grandchildren, Tasha Gilcrease & Nathan, Misty Rachal & Melvin, Ashlie Strother & Robert, Stacey Lane Anding & Cody, Charlie Bass, Brody Dauzat & Susan, and Emily O'Neal & Cody; thirty great-grandchildren, twelve great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Granny loved the Lord with all her heart and found great joy in worship. She loved singing Southern Gospel hymns with her husband and spending time reading her Bible. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was never shy about sharing God’s Word. She often quoted Scripture to her children and grandchildren, and sometimes a little conviction when she felt it was needed.

Granny was a woman who could never be described as quiet or easily persuaded. She was headstrong, honest, opinionated, and bossy, and she certainly wasn’t afraid to give an order—or two! She knew what she wanted and had no problem letting everyone else know it, too. Those who knew and loved her will surely smile when remembering her strong personality and the way she always had something to say.

She was also a perfectionist when it came to sewing and took great pride in her work. She loved cooking, especially making her famous biscuits and tater gravy, a favorite that will undoubtedly bring back many cherished memories for those who were blessed to enjoy them.

Granny also enjoyed working at Brookshire Brothers in the bakery decorating cakes and Role Play, where she made memories and connections with those around her.

She leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will be treasured by her family and friends.

Though our hearts are heavy with her passing, we find comfort knowing that Granny is now in the presence of the Lord she loved and served. We can imagine her singing those Southern Gospel hymns in Heaven, with no more pain, no more sorrow, and no more earthly burdens.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

Until we meet again, Granny, may you rest peacefully in the arms of Jesus and Papa.