Joseph Herring Blass

Joseph Herring Blass, age 91, a resident of Columbia, Tennessee, passed away on Monday morning, March 17, 2025, at Maury Regional Medical Center.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Pleasant Heights Baptist Church, 2712 Trotwood Ave, Columbia, TN 38401, with Dr. R. Maurice Hollingworth officiating. A visitation will also be held on Saturday from 9:00 – 11:00 AM at the church.

Born on November 26, 1933, in Utica, Mississippi, Joseph was the son of the late A.B. Blass, Sr. and the late Bernice Herring Blass. He honorably served his country in the United States Army for two years. A dedicated educator, Joseph was a college professor at Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, where he taught Voice for forty-five years. He led music ministry at countless churches over the years, and had a special love for his school and private voice students.

A man of routine, even at 91 years old, he faithfully visited Planet Fitness seven days a week and enjoyed lunch at Arby’s six days a week. He was also an avid University of Alabama football fan.

He is survived by his daughter, Nancy (Maurice) Hollingsworth of Columbia and grandchildren, Elizabeth Hollingsworth and Blass Hollingsworth.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Sue Blass, daughter, Jane Kent Blass, and brother, A.B. Blass, Jr.

Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.