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A man of faith, family, and fortitude, Charles Jerome “Bitty” “Zeek” Bass leaves behind a legacy that will long outlive his earthly existence. His life was a testament to perseverance, service, brotherhood, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. Charles was born on December 11, 1942, in Houston, Texas, in the historic Fifth Ward community, to the late Henry Artis Bass and Letha Elizabeth Rawls-Bass. He was also preceded in death by three beloved sisters: Lida Mitchell, Carlyn Lacy, and Alice Joyce Lewis. Affectionately known by many names throughout his life—Bitty, Happy Ass Bass, Freaky Zeek, Chuck, Zeek, Uncle Zeek, and Papa Zeek—Charles was loved and respected by family, friends, and countless individuals whose lives he touched. Charles received his education in the Houston Independent School District and graduated from Phillis Wheatley High School. He later attended Prairie View A&M University, where he pursued studies in Physical Education and proudly became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. At an early age, Charles accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at First Shiloh Baptist Church in Houston, Texas, establishing a spiritual foundation that remained with him throughout his life. Charles began his professional career at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Houston. He later relocated to Los Angeles, California, where he worked as an orderly at Jefferson Davis Hospital until he was drafted into military service in 1968. He honorably served his country in the United States Army as a member of the elite 82nd Airborne Division Paratroopers, including service during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, Charles became a Prince Hall Mason in Los Angeles, California. In the early 1970s, he returned to Houston, Texas, where he joined the Outlaw Trailriders Club and continued his Masonic journey as a member of True Level Lodge No. 226, Prince Hall Affiliation. Charles later affiliated with the H.B. Turner Grand Lodge of Texas, where he distinguished himself as a dedicated Master Mason. Throughout his Masonic career, he attained numerous honors and degrees, including the 32°, 33°, 95°, and 96° Degrees, and was appointed Honorary Past Grand Master by Most Worshipful Andre Jones. In November 2020, Grand Master Antonio “Bowtie” Cope of Thee Most Worshipful Florida United Grand Lodge honored Charles by creating and dedicating Charles “Zeek” Bass Lodge No. 73 in his name. The charter members of the lodge included: Worshipful Master: Benjamin “BiggBen” Kanu; Senior Warden: Preston Hicks, Junior Warden: Cedric Cope, Senior Deacon: Warren Leader, Junior Deacon: Cornelius Washington and Secretary: Khari Brown. In August 2021, the brothers of Charles “Zeek” Bass Lodge No. 73 were recognized as Lodge of the Year. Charles proudly attended the Grand Session in Miami, Florida, where he joined the brethren in accepting the prestigious award. On June 13, 2026, Charles peacefully departed this life in Webster, Texas. Though his physical presence is no longer with us, his memory, wisdom, and influence will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved him. Cherishing his life and legacy are his devoted companion, friend, and caregiver, Sandra Williams-Lowery; nieces, Pat Nunn and Shawn Lacy; nephews, Reginald Lacy (Kat), Jeffery Lacy (Almeria), George “Butch” Lee, and Donald Lee (Bobbie); special bonus family, Roderick Williams (Melishea) and Russell Pickney (Quinisha); grandchildren, Ashley Pickney, Zebina Pickney, Renae Pickney, Russell Pickney Jr., Reileigh Williams, Reese Williams, and Rian Pickney; and his special great-granddaughter, Kenzley Pickney. He also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, friends, and fellow brothers and sisters of the H.B. Turner Grand Lodge of Texas, New Life Grand Chapter, and numerous organizations whose lives were enriched by his presence. Charles Jerome Bass lived a life of purpose, service, and distinction. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, and his memory will forever be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

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Charles Jerome Bass

December 11, 1942 - June 13, 2026