Jerel Wayne Basinger

Jerel Wayne Basinger, passed away Wednesday, December 23, 2020. He was born on January 1, 1937 to Clyde and Mary Basinger, and brother Weldon, on New Year’s Day. He was the very first baby of the New Year in Fort Worth, and his birth was celebrated throughout the town.

He was a proud 1955 graduate of Ft. Worth Technical High School, and later received a college degree from Tarrant County Junior College. Education was important to Jerel, he worked hard to ensure all his children received college educations and understood family values.

Jerel served his country for two years in the U.S. Navy. He had many adventures, aboard the ice breaker U.S.S. Edisto.

Jerel joined the Fort Worth Fire Department in 1959 and served 33 years, doing what he loved best. He retired as a Captain with Station Eighteen on Camp Bowie Boulevard.

He loved his family, traveling the U.S. and around the world, playing golf, and sharing time with his fellow firefighters.

Survivors include: his wife and soul mate of 61½ years, Eva; daughter Jan Caldwell Hulett and husband Nin; sons Jerel Basinger Jr. and wife Wynona, and Kenneth Basinger. He leaves ten precious grandchildren, and at last count 15 great grandchildren.

Service will be Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at 10am at Wiley Funeral Home in Granbury, Texas. Interment following at Acton Cemetery.