Mr. Donald J. Bassett, beloved husband, father and friend, surrendered his soul to Jesus on Wednesday, April 28, 2010 from the Jack C. Montgomery VA Regional Medical Center.

Donald was born on January 31, 1948 in Eufaula, Oklahoma, the son of the late Irene Crabtree and L. C. Bassett. He was the oldest of 2 children. He met the former Debrah Manuel, and after they fell in love, they were married on February 23, 1974.

Donald grew up in Tulsa, where he graduated from the acclaimed Booker T. Washington High School. He then attended Northeastern State University in Tahlequah.

Donald served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he was a decorated soldier, receiving two purple heart awards and a bronze star. Donald continued his leadership and good stewardship, becoming a Muskogee Firefighter, where he rendered over 20 years of service before retiring as Captain.

Donald was a dedicated member of the Beebe Memorial Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, often on program reciting scripture readings. He enjoyed Gospel music and would stand to his feet, giving praise. He also served on the Beebe Memorial CME Trustee Board.

Donald was an otgoing, caring and forthcoming person who did not mind going out of his way to help people. He was a true lover of sports and especially was passionate about the sense of being competitive. Donald possessed a sense of pride and charisma that made others smile. He lived his life to the fullest and did not meet a stranger. He was always willing to share his philosophy on living a good life to anyone around him.

Donald enjoyed being around fmaily and friends, especially enjoying time with his daughter, Dondra. He was proud of her accomplishments and would stick his chest out at the mere mention of her name. His son, Donald J. Bassett, Jr., was the joy of his life and whatever "DJ" wanted, he received. His recreational time was spent with his nephew, Kendall Ousley, with whom he had a special bond. His niece, Desiree Anderson was like a daughter to him. Donald would smile evertyime she phoned.

Donald's enjoyable and friendly spirit will be greatly missed but it was time for him to go on a different journey. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:8

Left to cherish his sweet memory; his wife of 36 years, Debrah Bassett, of the home in Muskogee; his daughter, Dondra Bassett, Dallas, Texas; his son, Donald Bassett, Jr., Muskogee; his brother, Quinton Crabtree, Tulsa, Oklahoma; a dear friend, James Lewis, Tulsa, Oklahoma; along with a caravan of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, other family members and friends, and last, but certainly not least, his beloved dog, "Charlie."

The Celebratory Tribute for Mr. Bassett will be on Friday, May 7, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. in the Beebe Memorial Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, 700 South 7th Street. Reverend Rodney Gaines, Pastor, will Preside. The Christian Committal, with Military Honors, will follow in Booker T. Washington Cemetery.

You may visit Donald, as he slumbers in peaceful repose, at the funeral home on Thursday, from 10 AM until 7 PM.