Carol Martin Basham

Carol Martin Basham, 78, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2025, surrounded by family and friends.

Born on Staten Island, Carol spent her childhood in New Jersey before moving to Delaware in high school. She graduated from the University of Delaware and later went on to receive her Master's in Education from the Curry School of Education at the University of Virginia. A lifelong educator dedicated to the pursuit of learning, Carol taught in Virginia, Germany, and Alaska. She was praised by colleagues for her intuitive ability to perfectly match teaching styles and techniques to each student's individual learning needs. The capstone of her career was serving more than two decades as the Head Start Director for Loudoun County Public Schools. Taking on the role in 1994, Carol worked tirelessly to expand early childhood education for low-income children and families throughout the county until her retirement in 2016. She was a fiercely loyal and devoted mentor, beloved by all who were fortunate enough to be part of the Head Start family.

Carol was passionate about dogs, travel, gardening, Alaska, time by the ocean, and conservation. She held a deep reverence for nature, finding beauty and peace in her natural surroundings. A talented chef and lover of good food, Carol never missed an opportunity to share a delicious meal with family and friends. She was patient and kind, leading by example and inspiring those around her. Her greatest joy came from time spent with her sons, grandchildren, old friends and canine companions.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Owen D. Basham, and her parents, Florence and Eric Martin. She is survived by her sons, Andrew (Temple) and Owen Martin (Jessica); her brother, Ric Martin (Leisa); her five grandchildren, Beck, Groves, Callum, Henry, and Margot; her nieces and nephews, Eric, Jenny, Zak, and Ali; her friend of more than 50 years, Ken Lucas; and countless other friends whose lives she touched deeply.

Carol will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery, alongside her husband and near her parents. Her family will host a celebration of life this fall. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society or your local animal shelter.

Carol Martin Basham