James Bennie "Sam" Bass

CMSGT, USAF (Ret) James Bennie “Sam” Bass entered rest on Sunday, March 25, 2012 at the age of 79. He was born October 31, 1932 to Richard D. Bass and Rosa Mae Griffin Bass in Killeen, TX. Mr. Bass leaves behind a tremendous legacy, including service in the U.S. Air Force for over 28 years where he managed 19 clubs both stateside and overseas. His overseas assignments included the Korean and Vietnam wars as well as serving in Germany during the Berlin crisis. He possessed a distinguished service record having been the recipient of 47 different awards and decorations including the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Air Force Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster. A member of CMAA for over 41 years, he achieved the prestigious and honored CCM (Certified Club Manager) designation; Sam often boasted that he had the lowest membership number: 119. His passion for the club management industry was evident through the formation of the Sam Bass Scholarship, which awards tuition dollars to CMAA student members. He was preceded in death by his parents. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 56 years, Renia Frances Bass; daughters, Connie Lyons and husband James and Pamela Bass; grandchildren, Jaime Linn Lyons; Amber Lea Diebels and husband Steve; great-grandchildren, Alexander, Vaughn and Christopher; brother, Richard Dean Bass and wife Suzanne; numerous beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and extended family and friends. A memorial service will be held Friday, April 20, 2012 at 12:00pm at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel, 1701 Austin Highway, San Antonio, TX. Interment with full military honors will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Humane Society of Kerrville, P. O. Box 2190, Kerrville, Texas 78029 or www.humanesocietyofkerrville.com, The James B. “Sam” Bass Scholarship Fund, Texas Lone Star Chapter-CMAA, 2909 Cole Avenue, Ste.305, Dallas, TX 75204, 214-336-7617, or the charity of your choice. You are invited to offer condolences at www.sunsetfuneralhomesa.com