Athens, Alabama - Billie Jane Bass, aged 89, of Athens, passed away peacefully at her residence on Thursday, July 24th, 2025. Mrs. Bass was born on October 26th, 1935, in Elkmont, to the late Howard Hobbs Sr. and Emma Compton Hobbs.

Mrs. Bass is lovingly remembered by her family, including her son Jeff Bass and his wife Merri Beth; daughter Suzanne Bass; cherished granddaughter Meredith Baswell and her husband Chad; and great-grandsons Davis Baswell, Winn Baswell, and Sam Baswell. She is also survived by her sisters Ardyce Behrens and Lawana Hurt, and brother Howard Hobbs Jr.

Mrs. Bass was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Billy Bass; her granddaughter, Janice Bass; her brother, James Hobbs; and her sister, Melinda Christ.

A Celebration of Life service will be held to honor Mrs. Bass on Tuesday, July 29th, 2025, at 12:00pm at the First Methodist Church in Athens. Friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation prior to the service, starting at 11:00am, to pay their respects and share memories.

Mrs. Bass was a remarkable woman who touched the hearts of many throughout her years as a dedicated teacher. Her passion for education left an indelible mark on the minds of those she helped shape. Outside of her professional life, she found joy in playing cards and traveling to new places. Her greatest joy, however, came from her family, whom she deeply loved and cherished.

Faith was a cornerstone of Mrs. Bass's life. As a devoted member of the First Methodist Church in Athens, she loved the Lord and found solace and wisdom in reading His Word. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mrs. Bass's legacy of love, faith, and dedication will continue to inspire those she leaves behind. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in memory of Mrs. Bass to First Methodist Church ministries Manna Meals or God's Bloom.