Basie Pass, Jr.

Basie Pass Jr. knew how to build. An automotive engineer by trade, Basie spent a lifetime raising up not just cars — but people, social organizations and, most important of all, his own loving family. Born March 30, 1947, in Grenada County, Miss., Basie was the only child of Basie Pass Sr. and Judith (Green) Pass. After the family moved to East St. Louis, Ill., in 1952, Basie went on to graduate from Lincoln High School and later enrolled at Hampton Institute. In 1970, he earned a bachelor's degree in manufacturing engineering from Hampton — becoming the first member of his family to graduate college. Basie went on to start his professional career at General Motors, working in the Saginaw Steering Division. He later worked as an engineer in Tennessee, New York and Ohio before wrapping up his career at Delphi Steering (now known as Nexteer). For a short period he was also owner/operator of his own manufacturing company. Along the way, Basie also became a devoted and loving husband and father. He also became a committed Christian in January 2011 and was baptized at Greater Williams Temple. Though Basie was the first in his family to receive a college degree, he spent much of his life making sure he wouldn't be the last. He helped guide all of his own children into higher education and professional careers. But Basie's influence and desire to help others achieve reached beyond his own family. He served as an advisor for the Kappa League youth group, regularly volunteering to participate in leadership development activities for local youth. Through Delphi, Basie also helped create the Robotics team at Buena Vista High School. In addition, Basie was an avid golfer, a member of the Epicurian Lodge #674 and a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. On August 10, 2013, Basie Pass died peacefully. He is remembered by his loving wife, Denise; his devoted mother, Mrs. Judy Pass; five affectionate children: Basie Pass (Tamburela) III, Bernadette Pass, Jason (Jenna) Daenzer, Bryon Pass and Benjamin Pass; grandchildren Darbee Pass, Basi'a Pass and Leila Daenzer; and a host of cousins and friends. Funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 15, 2013 at Greater Williams Temple C.O.G.I.C., 608 E. Remington. Bishop H. J. Williams, Pastor. Supt. Arthur Aikin, Sr. will officiate with entombment in Roselawn Memorial Gardens. Friends may call at the Evans & Browne's Funeral Home, 441 North Jefferson Avenue, on Wednesday from 2:00 until 8:00 p.m., where the family will be present from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. for a family hour.

Basie Pass, Jr.

March 30, 1947 - August 10, 2013