08/13/2026
It is with profound sadness that the City of Watauga announces the passing of the Honorable J. Stewart Bass, Municipal Court Judge for the City of Watauga. Judge Bass passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, following a medical emergency.
Judge Bass dedicated much of his distinguished legal career to public service and the fair administration of justice. As Judge of the Watauga Municipal Court of Record, he served the citizens of Watauga with professionalism, integrity, fairness, and a deep respect for the law and the people who appeared before his court.
A graduate of the University of Texas School of Law, Judge Bass earned his law degree in 1985 and was licensed to practice law in the State of Texas in 1986. Over the course of his career, he devoted decades to the legal profession. He served as a municipal judge in North Texas, including as Presiding Judge for the City of Blue Mound and North Richland Hills and Municipal Judge for Watauga, Richland Hills, and Boyd.
Beyond his extensive judicial appointments, Judge Bass maintained a thriving private legal practice in Fort Worth for 40 years. He fiercely represented North Texas citizens in personal injury and workers' compensation matters. He was a proud alumnus of Trinity University (B.A., 1982) and The University of Texas School of Law (J.D., 1985).
Judge Bass was more than a respected member of the judiciary. To those who had the privilege of working alongside him, he was a trusted colleague, a familiar presence at City Hall, and a valued member of the Watauga family. His years of service and commitment to justice made a lasting impact on the City, its employees, and the community he faithfully served.
Judge Bass brought not only a strong knowledge of the law to the bench, but also patience, compassion, and a deep sense of fairness. He understood the responsibility of the courtroom and treated those who appeared before him with dignity and respect. His service reflected the highest standards of the legal profession, and he leaves a lasting legacy for the colleagues and community he served.
The City of Watauga extends its deepest condolences to Judge Bass' family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched throughout his many years of public service.
Judge J. Stewart Bass leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity, and dedication to justice. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by the Watauga community.
Information regarding services or memorial arrangements will be shared when available.
It is with profound sadness that the City of Watauga announces the passing of the Honorable J. Stewart Bass, Municipal Court Judge for the City of Watauga. Judge Bass passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, following a medical emergency.
Judge Bass dedicated much of his distinguished legal career to public service and the fair administration of justice. As Judge of the Watauga Municipal Court of Record, he served the citizens of Watauga with professionalism, integrity, fairness, and a deep respect for the law and the people who appeared before his court.
A graduate of the University of Texas School of Law, Judge Bass earned his law degree in 1985 and was licensed to practice law in the State of Texas in 1986. Over the course of his career, he devoted decades to the legal profession. He served as a municipal judge in North Texas, including as Presiding Judge for the City of Blue Mound and North Richland Hills and Municipal Judge for Watauga, Richland Hills, and Boyd.
Beyond his extensive judicial appointments, Judge Bass maintained a thriving private legal practice in Fort Worth for 40 years. He fiercely represented North Texas citizens in personal injury and workers' compensation matters. He was a proud alumnus of Trinity University (B.A., 1982) and The University of Texas School of Law (J.D., 1985).
Judge Bass was more than a respected member of the judiciary. To those who had the privilege of working alongside him, he was a trusted colleague, a familiar presence at City Hall, and a valued member of the Watauga family. His years of service and commitment to justice made a lasting impact on the City, its employees, and the community he faithfully served.
Judge Bass brought not only a strong knowledge of the law to the bench, but also patience, compassion, and a deep sense of fairness. He understood the responsibility of the courtroom and treated those who appeared before him with dignity and respect. His service reflected the highest standards of the legal profession, and he leaves a lasting legacy for the colleagues and community he served.
The City of Watauga extends its deepest condolences to Judge Bass' family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched throughout his many years of public service.
Judge J. Stewart Bass leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity, and dedication to justice. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by the Watauga community.
Information regarding services or memorial arrangements will be shared when available.
