Jack Basham

Jack Basham, a longtime resident of Hillsboro, Missouri, passed away at home, surrounded by family. He was born on March 24, 1939, in Shannon County, Missouri, to Jack and Bertha Mae Basham. 

Jack married Carol Barnett on April 25, 1959, and together they shared 66 years of devoted marriage. He was baptized at Sandy Creek Covered Bridge and was a faithful member of Sandy Baptist Church, where he served as a bus driver, gathering kids for Sunday school. He was ordained as deacon in the spring of 1981. He also dedicated many years as a trustee and caretaker of the church cemetery. 

A man of service, Jack volunteered countless hours with the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief team, always ready to help those in need. He was a skilled journeyman machinist, working for Grand Manufacturing for 28 years and Missouri Power Transmission for 24 years. During a layoff, he worked as a service attendant at the Pevely Sinclair gas station. His strong work ethic began early in life, when he lived in Oregon and worked in the logging industry. 

Jack had a passion for classic and hot rod cars, often participating in car shows and swap meets. His hobbies brought him joy and lifelong friendships. 

He will be remembered as a man of strength, integrity, and unwavering kindness. Whether working with his hands, sharing stories, or offering a helping hand, Jack had a gift for making people feel seen and valued. 

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Carol; his children Jackie (Debbie) Basham, Tammy (David) Diveley, and Doug (Lisa) Basham; seven grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; his brother, Dan Basham of Winona, MO; his sister, Phyllis Baker of Lebanon, MO; his brother-in- law, David Barnett (Linda) of Summersville, MO; his sisterin-law, Evelyn Wells (Johnny) of Rolla, MO; and many dear friends who will continue to carry forward his legacy. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Truman, Ron and Jerry Basham. 

Visitation will be held at Sandy Baptist Church on Wednesday, June 25th, from 11 am until 1 pm, followed by the funeral service and burial at the church cemetery. The family requests that donations be made to a local charity in Jack’s honor, reflecting the generous and giving spirit that defined his life. 

The immediate family would like to extend a special thanks to family and friends, especially the hospice team, Ruth, Jenny, and Mark, for the care and support offered over the last two weeks.