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James Bassett Obituary
The World's Greatest Grandpa, James "Jim" Russell Bassett Jr., 63, died at his Billings home on Monday, May 1, 2017.
Jim was born on March 19, 1954, at the U.S. Air Force Hospital of Chateauroux, at Dèols, France to James and Pauline (Schultz) Bassett. A couple of years later, the family welcomed a second baby boy and Jim's lifelong best friend, Robert (Bob) Duane Bassett. The family lived in various places throughout Europe and the United States during his Dad's service in the Air Force. After his Dad's retirement, Jim and Bob lived in Billings, Ronan and White Swan, Washington. Jim graduated from White Swan in 1973.
As boys, Jim and Bob spent their days building forts, playing baseball, and getting into mischief. Jim was athletic and excelled in various sports during high school. Following graduation, he joined the Air Force and was stationed at Travis Air Force Base in California.
After serving in the military, Jim returned to Montana where he met his future wife, Artha Mae. The two married in October of 1976 and had three daughters together (Brooke, Brandi and Brenda). Jim's career in sales and HR took him to various places all over the country, but he always called Montana home.
Jim was an avid golfer, and loved fishing. He was also a devout Yankees and Cowboys fan. More recently, Jim enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, his brother, Bob, and his 4-legged girls, Jetta and Brandy.
Cremation has taken place and services will be held at Smith Downtown Chapel at 1:00 p.m. on May 22, 2017, followed by graveside services at Mountview Cemetery. Everyone is then invited to celebrate his life with food and fun at a 3 p.m. reception at North Park.
Jim is survived by his three daughters, Brooke (Chad), Brandi (Matt), and Brenda (Austin); his ex-wife and forever friend, Artha; his brother, Bob; step-siblings, Kim and Steve, 10 grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and many close friends.
The family request donations be made to the American Legion. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting smithfuneralchapel.com.
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