Ann Lewis, former media relations manager for BASS, died Tuesday in Birmingham, Ala., after a lengthy illness.
Lewis managed publicity and media services for BASS and the Bassmaster Tournament Trail from 1983 through 1999, and she was directly responsible for gaining coverage of professional bass fishing in major news outlets throughout the United States.
After leaving BASS in 1999, Lewis handled publicity and media relations for Ray Scott Outdoors, and later, the Buckmasters, based in Montgomery, Ala.
As much as she loved working with outdoor sports, Lewis found additional fulfillment in the last few years of her life as communications/evangelism director for Christchurch in Montgomery, Ala., where she also served as Web editor.
What really impressed me was her grace under pressure, said Dave Precht, senior director of BASS Publications. She never complained — even in the midst of her recent illness — and she never lost her trademark smile. Her contributions to the growth of the sport of bass fishing were significant. We are devastated by this loss.
Lewis is survived by her parents, Charley and Gladys Smith.By: BASS Communications / BASS
