Obituary for James E. Basey

James Eugene Basey passed away on Thursday, June 9, 2016, at the VA Medical Center in Asheville, North Carolina. He was born on August 6, 1943 in Lebanon, Indiana, the son of the late Harold Eugene Basey and Fairy Elizabeth (Shoemaker) Basey. 

Jim moved to Boone County in 1961 was a 1962 graduate of Frankfort High School. Following school, Jim enlisted in the US Marine Corps. He served during the Vietnam War as a member of the H&MM 163 Helicopter Squadron which was the most decorated helicopter squadron in Vietnam. He and his squadron flew 239 missions during the war. 

On August 21, 1964, he was married to Cheryl Susan (Knight) Basey in Lafayette, Indiana; she survives.  

Following his military service, Jim moved to Tampa, Florida and began working at Reynolds Aluminum Can Plant. He also began studying business at the University of South Florida, graduating in 1975. Jim then started working at General Sheet Metal Company in Tampa in the engineering department. He then went on to own/operate several sheet metal and steel fabrication businesses.

Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He enjoyed racing corvettes in the past and was a member of the National Corvette Club of America. He was also a member of Holly Springs Baptist Church in Franklin. 

Survivors:
Wife: Cheryl Knight Basey – Franklin, North Carolina
Children: James Scott Basey and wife, Christine – Franklin, North Carolina
Douglas Alan Basey and wife Denise – Brandon, Florida
Grandchildren: 5
Great Grandchildren: 2
Sisters: Jacquelyn Keck – Frankfort, Indiana
Julia Hill and husband, Gerry – Payson, Arizona
Joyce Popke and husband, Scott – Star Valley, Arizona 
Several Nieces and Nephews

Deceased: Jim is preceded in death by father Harold Eugene Basey and mother, Fairy Elizabeth (Shoemaker) Basey. 

A memorial service will be held in Franklin, North Carolina to be set at later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Appalachian Animal Rescue Center/Humane Society of Macon County, North Carolina and/or Marine Corps League 973 Franklin, North Carolina.