Charles Wayne Bassham

Celebrating the Life of Charles “Charlie” Wayne Bassham

Celebrating the remarkable life of Charlie Bassham, whose journey began on February 22, 1947, in Fort Worth, Texas. Born to Charley and Vivian Bassham, Charlie lived a life rich with love, music, family, friendship, and generosity.

Charlie was a proud alumnus of Paschal High School, where he formed lifelong friendships that he treasured throughout his life. His passion for music guided the early years of his career, during which he performed full-time with several bands, including the Lee Pickens Group, an opportunity that took him to Hollywood, and later Dr. Wu. Charlie was immensely proud of his musical accomplishments and of the joy his talent brought to countless people.

In 1979, Charlie met Debra, the love of his life. Their journey together began in May 1983 and led to their wedding on June 5, 1989, at the Little Chapel of the West in Las Vegas. Their decades together were filled with love, laughter, friendship, and countless wonderful memories.

In the second chapter of his professional life, Charlie dedicated himself to the family business, Bassham Foods. He worked alongside Ronnie, Joanna, Randy, and Wesley in a variety of roles, including sales and purchasing. Charlie’s warmth, humor, and natural charisma had a way of turning business relationships into genuine friendships. He especially enjoyed meeting and getting to know restaurant owners throughout the Metroplex.

Charlie was also an avid fisherman who treasured his time on the water. Fishing gave him a place to enjoy the outdoors, find peace, and share good times with the people he loved.

Above all else, Charlie was devoted to being the best husband, father, pop-c, family member, and friend he could be. Those were the roles he cherished most deeply.

Charlie and Debra were blessed with a daughter, Chelsea, who, along with her husband, Brandon, gave Charlie one of the greatest joys of his life—his beloved grandchildren, Charley and Blaze Piper. Being a husband, father, and grandfather meant more to Charlie than anything else, and his love for his family knew no bounds.

Charlie’s circle of love extended far beyond his immediate family. It included his sister-in-law, Sherry Carson; brothers-in-law Mike Beck and Gary Beck and his wife, Michelle; as well as numerous nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces.

Charlie was also blessed with many friends who became family, including Gina and Jud Piner, Judy and Howard Gurn, Jake Grant, Bud and Lavonne Lewing, and Cindy Karter, along with countless others whose lives were touched by his friendship and generosity.

Charlie found his spiritual home at Redeemer Lutheran Church, where he gave generously of his time and talents. He helped establish a lunch program for Redeemer School and served on the school board. His kindness, generosity, and boundless heart made a lasting impact on the church and school communities and on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

To those who knew him, Charlie was a man who was always ready with a hug, a kiss, or a handshake. His love of music remained with him throughout his life, as did his enthusiasm for the rodeo and especially the Fort Worth Stock Show.

Charlie Bassham’s legacy is one of love, music, friendship, generosity, and unwavering kindness. His life was a melody all its own—one that will continue to resonate in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Honorary Pall Bearers

Gary Beck, Justin Beck, Mike Beck, Howard Gurn, Bud Lewing, and Brandon Piper

Celebration of Life

A service celebrating Charlie’s life will be held:Tuesday, August 18th at 11 Tuesday

Tuesday, August 18th at 11am

Grace Baptist Church
1501 Jim Wright Freeway
Fort Worth, TX 76108