William Bascom

1939 - 2026

Bascom, William

December 21, 1939 - March 21, 2026

William (Bill) Ames Bascom was born in St. Louis on December 21,1939 and died from Alzheimer's Disease on March 21, 2026.

He was predeceased by his parents William R. Bascom and Jean Ames Bascom Theopold; brother Perry Bascom; sister Dede Bascom Rice; and daughter Liza Bascom.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Melanie; daughter Lee (Mike); grandchildren Ames and Izzy; brother Toby (Annette), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, lifelong friends, classmates, and students.

Bill grew up on the bend of Litzsinger Road by Deer Creek. He spent much of his boyhood playing with neighbors and looking for animals in Fischer Field. Although he proudly graduated from Colgate University and the University of Missouri, his favorite schools were Price School and John Burroughs School. At both places, he found a lifelong community that nurtured creativity and all forms of intelligence.

Serving as a member of the Marine Corps changed his life by teaching him self-discipline and providing a band of brothers. Before he became a full-time photographer, Bill taught English, writing, and photography and coached in the Parkway School District and John Burroughs.

As a teacher, Bill didn't care how smart or fancy you were- he just wanted you to learn. Bill believed that the purpose of education is to see humanity in everyone. He was funny (practical jokes), polite (always let others go first), well mannered (firm handshakes and eye contact a must) and kind (treated all with dignity and respect). Throughout his life, he warmly took great interest in people from all walks of life. Above all, he loved his family, friends, animals (especially cats), tinkering, writing, chocolate chip cookies, spending time in his darkroom, and cutting the grass on the diagonal.

In a world where so much is expendable and it is easy to move on when times get tough, Bill had an ongoing conversation with Melanie that started over 65 years ago, one that will continue forever, heart to heart. What a quiet example of love and commitment he leaves for those who knew him best.

To celebrate Bill, please join the family at home from 12-4 on Sunday, April 19. Interment will be at the family plot in Friendfield, SC at a later date. Memorials appreciated to the Jack Acker Teacher Fund at John Burroughs School or the St. Louis County Library Foundation. Please also consider sending a letter to a teacher or coach that mattered to you.

Lupton Millard Chapel

7233 Delmar Blvd. St. Louis, MO. 63130

314-721-1870