Addie J. Bass
June 5, 1938 - March 6, 2026
Addie J. Bass, age 87, of Middletown, DE, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026.
Born in Bennettsville, SC on June 5, 1938, she was the daughter of the late James Malloy and Addie Elizabeth (Jenkins) Washington. Addie Bass graduated from Brooklyn College of the City University of New York with a Bachelor of Arts in 1975. She was passionate about learning as she earned countless certifications from Pace University, York College, and Cornell University. She was a nutritionist and dietitian for the State of New York from which she retired. Alongside her late husband Addie was also a certified Tax Preparer. Together they prepared taxes for over 50 years in New York City and Delaware.
Addie Bass was a very nurturing, and strong woman throughout her entire life. Her journey began in South Carolina, and she intentionally planted seeds throughout New York and Delaware. She centered her success around her education and hard work. She poured love and a lesson into everyone she crossed paths with. She raised her own children and their generations after. But she also was a mother and teacher to neighbors and friends. Addie volunteered at her children’s and grandchildren’s schools to share her passion for education and reading. She loved spending many hours in her beautiful garden, she tended with her husband. The neighbors were always grateful for the fresh fruits and vegetables she shared. Addie was known for her famous bean pies and coconut cakes in every place she lived. She was a talented seamstress as well who even handmade special event gowns for neighbors. She traveled the world in every phase of her life with her family. Addie taught us all that with hard work and love you can build a beautiful life that uplifts generations and opens the hearts of others.
In addition to her parents, Addie was preceded in death by her husband, Sylvester Bass, Sr. She is survived by her children, Nequete Collins (Chuckey), Ishmael Bass (Lalita), Saladin Bass, and Illyas Bass; stepchildren, Sylvester Bass, Jr. (Mary), and Stephanie Bass; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 11 am on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 275 East Main Street, Middletown, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 11 am. A committal service will follow in the chapel of Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE.
Marilyn Bell
The Bell family from NYC would like to send our condolences to the family at this time. You all are in our prayers.
Tynnetta Medley
Sending love and strength to the Bass family. I have such fond memories of Sister Addie and Brother Sylvester. They were the life of the party and Illy followed in their footsteps. Even though they’re gone, may the many great memories give you comfort and peace.
Stacy Finnie
I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Please know that my heart goes out to you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. I hope you can find some comfort in the love and support of those who cared about you in the many meaningful moments you shared together
Nina Bing
Ms Addie was a beautiful person inside& out.She was a strong woman who loved,and raised her family in the proper way.Her family will miss her a lot,but now they can use a the lessons she taught them about life and how to make it through. I met the family when I can to visit my Aunt Annie in New York.
The Bass family would welcome you into their home with loving arms. Love and sympathy goes out to the family!Love Nina
Hugh James
My sincere condolences to the family. Growing as kids in Laurelton, NY , Mrs Bass had her three sons but she was a 2nd Mom to countless boys in the neighborhood including me. Truly a wonderful person. 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
Nyeesha Bass
My deepest condolences
Myrnia Bass-Hargrove
So sorry I could not attend today’s services. May she rest in peace. Sending lots of love and prayers of peace and comfort.
— Cousin Pearl Bass and Family