Bill Bass

June 13, 1952  –  July 17, 2024

Bill was the youngest of three boys, born to Thelma and Hubert Bass in June 1952 in Wilson, NC.  It was there he was raised to farm, to respect and enjoy the outdoors, and to prioritize family above all else.  In high school, Bill excelled in basketball and baseball and even had a brief opportunity to play the latter semi-professionally in the late 60’s.  

During the early 70’s, Bill moved to Raleigh and began what would become a lifelong career in retail lighting sales beginning at House of Lights. During this period in the early 70’s, he met and eventually wed his wife of nearly 50 years, Judy.  In 1987, they adopted their only son, Christopher, and within 5 years took a big risk by picking up everything and moving to Wilmington.  In 1992, they bought Coastal Lighting, originally established in 1952, but then struggling to stay afloat in 1995, Bill & Judy relocated Coastal to its current Market St Location.  With a lot of hard-work, late nights, dozens of fantastic employees and a little luck, they revitalized what had formerly been a highly respected business to one still enjoying success today.  

Bill was heavily involved in Youth Baseball as a coach and mentor to many in Wilmington during the 90’s, even serving several years as the President and Baseball Commissioner at Supper Optimist.  He shared and passed down his love of baseball to his son Chris, who still coaches High School and American Legion baseball today.  

Having been retired for multiple years, Bill loved tinkering with his many tools, machines, boats, and farm projects. He adored his granddaughters, nieces and nephews, and would offer to take anyone out on the boat, which was by far his favorite activity.  There was not a person Bill did not enjoy a good conversation with.  He is and always will be greatly missed by all of his family members and friends.

In addition to his wife, Judy, and son, Chris he is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Rigsbee; granddaughters, Haley, Morgan and a granddaughter who will be born soon, 2 brothers, Joseph and his wife Kathy and Donald and his wife, Connie. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may visit from 11:30 AM-1:00 PM on Saturday, July 27, 2024 at Andrews Mortuary, 1617 Market Street, Wilmington.

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