In Memory of Perry Richardson Bass, 91, a true philanthropist

Perry Richardson Bass, who turned a small fortune from his oil wildcatter uncle into a bigger fortune with a series of smart investments and then became a prominent philanthropist, died Thursday at age 91.

The family issued a statement saying Mr. Bass died peacefully at his home after a lifetime of ``remarkable accomplishment and joy." One of his greatest accomplishments was working with the Sid Richardson Foundation in Fort Worth.

Forbes magazine estimated Bass' net worth at $1 billion last year and ranked him No. 746 on its list of wealthiest Americans. With his wife, Nancy Lee Bass, he was one of the state's most generous benefactors.

Like other family members, Mr. Bass did not court publicity. In fact, his public memorial service was over in 20 minutes. Brevity was among Mr. Bass' "suggestions" for the service.
He was one of the last remaining links to a colorful era in Texas history, when wildcatters struck it rich in what were then some of the world's great oil fields.

In the 1940s and 1950s, Mr. Bass worked alongside his uncle, Sid Williams Richardson , who discovered big oil finds. When he died, Richardson, left several million dollars to his nephew.
Mr. Bass and his wife, Nancy Lee Bass , donated millions to local museums and music halls. He also served as chairman of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission. His philanthropic dreams transformed Fort Worth.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

But listen, don’t take our word for it….read the beautiful sentiments that have been posted on 16 pages (as of 6/23/2006) in the Fort Worth Star Telegram at http://www.legacy.com/DFW/Guestbook.asp?Page=GuestBook&PersonId=17960141.