Walton Elbert Bass

  Walton Elbert Bass August 21, 1946 – March 5, 2017 Walton Elbert Bass, Jr., affectionately known as “W. E.” or Walt, passed away suddenly on March 5, 2017 in New Bern. He was the only child of Walton Elbert and Ora Belle Bass of Lucama.   W. E. grew up in Lucama and then went to UNC-CH to become a pharmacist.  W. E. had many loyal customers who trusted his advice and counsel.   He retired early to enjoy  the beach and fishing.  Retirement allowed him to spend quality time with his family and friends and enjoy travelling.  W. E. was a true friend to all who knew him, always helping in any way and never expecting anything in return.  He enjoyed life to its fullest and was an avid Tar Heel fan. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 50 years, Melelia Underhill Bass; son, David Bass (Kiersten); daughter, Amy Powell (Phil), and grandchildren, Hillary, Lee, Miles, Grayson, and Bryn. Others who will mourn his passing are his brothers and sisters in law, Henry and Mary Underhill, and Ted and Margaret Pattison, his ‘like a brother’ J.T. and wife, Sue Bass and many nieces, nephews and cousins.  He will be missed by “The Dawgs” at the Tiki Bar and their crazy outings. A Masonic Service will be held in his honor in Maplewood Cemetery on Thursday, March 9, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. by Lucama Lodge #527, which he was a member. Family will greet friends on Wednesday, March 8, 2017 at Joyner’s Funeral Home, 4100 Raleigh Road Parkway, Wilson from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and other times at the residence. The family request donations to the Lucama Masonic Lodge #527, PO Box 134, Lucama, North Carolina 27851 or the N.C. Masonic Home for Children, 600 W. College Street Oxford, North Carolina 27565 in lieu of flowers. Condolences may be directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home at www.joyners.net.