Cookie Binzer

Thursday, March 26, 2009

What a shock that our beloved cousin Mike was taken away from us! I had just mentioned him to my own kids that week as the big cousin that was so much fun when I was a little kid. He had taught my brother and me to talk like donald duck and we practiced and practiced until we had it just right and we could show him that we could do it, too! He was so cool! We thought he was the best!
Knowing that he is now with Uncle Jerry makes it a little easier, but selfishly we still wish he was here.
Gari, your love letter at the funeral was so touching and I know he must have loved you incredibly! Lucky him to get such a great girl! Sounds like he was very happy! Thank you for loving my cousin so much.
All my Love,
Cousin Cookie

Teresa (Teri) Siebert Rogers

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

The Bassett family is obviously very special to many. My heart goes out to his family, especially Mrs. Tynse, Dudley, Tanner, Barry, as well as his wife, Geri Lynn, and Brett.
I pray that the memories you share of Mike will comfort you during this time of grief. May God's love provide you the peace needed to endure this difficult time.

With sincere condolences,

Irv Sisk

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Gari,
Words can not express the shock and sadness I feel at your sudden and tragic loss. My deepest sympathies and best wishes are with you, Brett and all the Bassett family. God bless you all.

Gary Pugh

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Although I didn't see Mike in the last few years, some of my fondest memories were during his childhood days as a little leaguer on baseball teams that I coached. I can still remember him on the mound ready to pitch with his tongue hanging out. The Bassett family were pillars of the community of Walnut Ridge. He will be greatly missed. God bless the Bassett family.

Marty Faulkner

Friday, March 20, 2009

He was a great friend,roommate,fraternity brother, older brother figure and just a great part of my life. I will miss him a great deal. He added happiness to my life and I will see him again. Get us a good tee time Heaven "Hound". Thoughts and prayers are with Gari,Brett and the entire Bassett family.

Cherri Hall

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Gari,
I am gorry for your loss. You will be in my prayers.

Janet Austin Lawhon

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

I am so sorry to learn of Mike's sudden death. I haven't seen him a lot since high school, but when I think of Mike, I think of the way he always treated me so nice and was so respectful. The family is in my prayers.

Janet

Karen

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

This isn't a note I send easily.

This is a shock; it has been too long that I had immediate contact with Mike. That in no way diminishs the quality of the contact. I have vivid memories of that coy, winsome smile.

My years in WR were such a luxury; Mike was part of that extravagance of a life well lived. We were afforded a foundation, un-comprimised. The community loved and looked after us, as teenagers we might not have fully appreciation of that "sense of responsibility" though it served us well.

Mike and I spent many hours in student council under the loving eye of Freda Wilmuth. Thankfully, I had the back of Mike's charm to smooth my rough edges. Unfortunately, the rough edges remain.

Relish the fabulous memories and hope for the future. Peace is at hand, welcome and enjoy it.

Kelly & Jim Littleton

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Gari, we are so sorry for your loss and will be keeping you and Brett in our prayers in the days to come.

Karol Merrill

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Gari - There are no words to express how we all feel at this time. I had the priviledge to work with Mike. He was always smiling, that cute little grin, and always had a twinkle in his eye! He was a great mentor and friend. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with you and Brett.

Scott Smith

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Gari and Brett,

Our family prayers are and have been with you each day. Your loss can only be understood by those who have known and loved Mike. Mike's engaging smile and personality always lit up the room wherever he went. Being the selfish person I am, I would rather Mike still be here with us, but one consolation is that Mike can visit with Uncle Jerry. How joyous a reunion I'll bet that was! All our love - Melissa, Scott, Harrison, and Jeffrey Smith.

Angie Avery

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Gari, What a wonderful service it was. I was so touched by your letter to Mike, his friends and family. You are truly a wonderful person and it was obvious Mike was so in love with you. I felt like "one of his girls" as he always had a hug and kind words for me. Know that I truly felt blessed to have known him. Please call me to talk, walk or just hang out. Love ya girl!

Marsha Taylor

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Gari - you and Mike came into my life when I didn't think I would survive. I can't tell you how much you mean to me. Mike will always have a special place in my heart. If you need a friend, I will always be here. I am so thankful that you and Brett have each other to lean on during this time. Please know that you are deeply loved.
Love, Marsha

GENE GALL

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

I am sorry to hear of Mike's passing. We went to school and graduated together. I do have fond memories of playing football with Mike. Our prayers are with you.

Jimmy Dean

Monday, March 16, 2009

Mike and I started our careers together right out of college working for Dun & Bradstreet, in 1979 in Little Rock. I would never have made it there if it had not been for Mike's sense of humor, and encouraging nature. I will always treasure his friendship in those early years. It meant the world to me. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. Our prayers are with your family.

Donna Medlin

Monday, March 16, 2009

Dear Gari,
I am so very sorry about Bassett, my heart goes out to you and Brett. Mike will be greatly missed and always remembered. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
God Bless
Donna Medlin

Cindy Hedrick

Monday, March 16, 2009

I had the pleasure of working with Mike at Superior Federal and FSB. I have many nice memories of working with Mike. I was so saddened to hear...

Rick Lorence

Monday, March 16, 2009

Mike, you made this world a better place to live and work. We love you and miss you!
Your friend,
Rick Lorence

Grimes Shafer

Monday, March 16, 2009

It's been a long time. 501-362-7496

Grimes

Heather Hardin

Monday, March 16, 2009

Gari,
I am terribly sorry for your loss. Mike was an extraordinary man. I know he will be missed by so many people. My thoughts have been with you as I can only imagine what you must be going through.

Rita Dorsett

Monday, March 16, 2009

Gari,
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. When it is the unexpected, the shock wave is great. I do pray that time, memories and prayer will heal your void. If you need anything regarding the office, don't hesitate to call me. Rita Dorsett - Houston Branch

Marliese Kerr

Monday, March 16, 2009

Gari, our thoughts and prayers are with you!

Sherry Maxwell

Monday, March 16, 2009

I am an employee of First Security Bank, Little Rock Division. I was so sorry to hear of your loss and wish to extend my condolences to all of you. God be with you.

Danny Swift

Monday, March 16, 2009

Athough I did not work directly with Mike, I worked in the same building and knew him well. He always had a smile and great since of humor, he will be missed by all of us. My prayers go out to you and your family .

Delbert Bailey

Monday, March 16, 2009

I was very saddened at learning of Mike's passing. I grew up with Mike in WR until about 7th grade and moved to Pocahontas & played ball then against him through Jr Hi & High school. Several yrs ago I saw Mike at Red Lobster in LR and it was like old times, talked about past ball games, etc. You should be very proud of Mike. Please accept my deepest sympathy.

Cheri Craig -Hearon

Monday, March 16, 2009

Memories of Mike's smiling face will always be a comfort. He will be greatly missed. May God bless you and give you peace and comfort.

Terri Javert

Monday, March 16, 2009

Mike you will be missed by a lot of people, you were always the light at the end of the tunnel.

Debbie Sullivan

Monday, March 16, 2009

I was so sorry to hear about the loss of Mike. He was really a nice person and made me feel welcome when I came aboard at FSB. I always looked forward to seeing Mike because he had a smile on his face and was always upbeat. He was truly one of a kind and he will be missed by so many. My thoughts and prayers go out to Mike's family and friends. Keep those wonderful memories close and they will help you at this difficult time.

John & Linda Summers

Sunday, March 15, 2009

We are sorry to hear of Mike's passing. We went to school and graduated together. John has fond memories of playing football and basketball with Mike. Our prayers are with you.

Suzanne Haro

Sunday, March 15, 2009

So many fond memories of Mike's small kindnesses. He always was and always will be thought of with great affection and and appreciation.
Love from "all" the Matthews' boys and from me.

Suzanne Harp

David and Patti Thornton

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Please accept our condolences for your loss. We always enjoyed spending time and conversation about the hogs with you guys. We can't begin to ease your grief, but know you are in our thoughts. I know that you have many fond memories of Mike because he made every day of life a memory. He always had a smile and kind words whenever we were together. We will miss running into him in Fayetteville every fall, but I know he will be watching us there.

Jeanette Hill

Sunday, March 15, 2009

What a special person Mike was. I always looked forward to seeing you both and encountering his tease, so I could tease back. I just can't believe I can't tell him that one last joke and hear him laugh. Gari, my heart goes out to you. God Bless you..

Mary Jo Watkins

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Every time I saw Mike he had a smile on his face and a gleam in his eye. That's the memory of him I will keep with me always. Gari, I love you, and I am here when you need me. Gari, Brett, Richard (Barry) and all of Mike's family: you are in our hearts and prayers. Please take comfort in knowing that God is taking care of Mike. (And, Mike will be rallying the Hog fans in Heaven!) Please feel God's love and allow Him to give you peace.

Mary Jo and Bob Watkins

Quinton and Dee

Sunday, March 15, 2009

It was just a few years that we knew mike, we feel that it was a lifetime.we enjoyed being around him, with that smile .He made everybody around him a better person. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We will be there for you ,anytime.

Rayannna Moore

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Dearest Family - my thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this time of great sadness. Mike will be sorely missed, but will watch over everyone from heaven. I'm sorry I can't be there with you.

Much love - Rayanna

Phillip and Sandy

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Our group will not be the same. Mike had a special way of making everyone feel special and all of us are better people for having had him in our lives.

Doug & Beverly Stark

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Gari Lynn, Brett, Gary, Phyllis, Kirk, & Holly

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mike. I heard of his death the other day through a friend of ours who works at First Security, but I did not realize friends of mine where related. I want you to know that Bev and I will be praying for your family. May God's presence be felt the strongest during this time in your life.

Quinton Linn &Dee Davis

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Gari, Brett and Family,
We feel so blessed to have been friends with Mike, we will miss that great laugh and smile, our prayers are with you may Gods loving hands touch your hearts and give you peace. Gari we will be walking beside you the rest of the way, just reach out , our hand will be there.
All our love,
Q & Dee

Chris Matthews

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Cyndi and I are very sorry for your loss. Mike will be missed by many.

Jan Martin

Sunday, March 15, 2009

May the loving Lord wrap his arms around you and comfort you during this saddened time. Mike was a GREAT guy. I went to school at Fayetteville with him. Also my son Justin Martin and Brett went to daycare together and stayed connected off and on over the years. Jan and Justin Martin

Mike, Becky, Greg & Eric Arthur

Sunday, March 15, 2009

We have enjoyed sharing in Mike's sports enthusiasm, church basketball with the boys and of course Razorback football ! We'll miss seeing him in front of us at the Fayetteville games. The Arthurs

Mark and Lyne Abernathy

Sunday, March 15, 2009

May you continue rootin on the Hogs and watch over Brett from the best seat in the Stadium...........

steve thrower

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Gari and Brett, you know I loved Mike like a brother, he was a kind and caring man. He made me laugh and smile. No words will explain or comfort you now, but knowing how much he was loved and how much he loved you is wonderful. I'll always be here for you--anytime, anyplace. I'll sure miss my golfing partner and BEST FRIEND ! All my love

Bo and Laura Holthoff

Saturday, March 14, 2009

I can't think of a word that can describe our hearts since the loss of Bassett. He was not only a great friend, you, Bassett and Brett are family. We cherish our memories we've made together and hold them so close to our hearts as support, in this time of sadness. We love you Gari and we know how much Mike loved you.

Rick Tate

Saturday, March 14, 2009

I haven't seen or talked to Mike in probably 30 years, but time has not diminished the memories I have of our time together as teenagers in WR. I have told many people that Mike was one of the two or three best athletes to ever graduate from WRHS-whatever he tried he did well. I am sure he carried that desire for excellence into whatever he has done in his adult life. My deepest sympathy is extended to his family.
Rick Tate

Terri Kimbrough

Saturday, March 14, 2009

I have so many fun memories of growing up with Mike. He lived next door to my Aunt Merle. Mike and I spent many hours talking "across the fence" when we were in high school. My thoughts and prayers are with Ms. Tynse, Gari Lynn, Brett, Dud, Barry and the extended family in your time of sorrow. God is with you every step of the way. Please rely on your faith to carry you through this tough time.

Teela Hayden Young & Johna Hayden Knight

Saturday, March 14, 2009

We are sad to hear of Mike's death. He was Johna's first boyfriend. May you experience God's comfort at this time. Teela Hayden Young & Johna Hayden Knight

Melody McKewen Smith

Saturday, March 14, 2009

My thoughts and Prayers are with your family. So sorry for your loss.

Abbie Bush Wilson

Saturday, March 14, 2009

I am deeply saddened to hear of Mike's passing. He is someone who is always sincere and honest with everyone. The memories of our school years are very special. Please know that your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Jack & Donna Dunham

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I will never forget all the good memories shared with Mike while growing up in Walnut Ridge. With Love, Jack Dunham

Jack & Donna Dunhan

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I will never forget all the good memories shared with Mike while growing up in Walnut Ridge. With Love, Jack Dunham

Gloria Thomas Thompson

Saturday, March 14, 2009

I would like to express my sorrow and extend my sympathy to all the Bassett family. It is so hard to lose someone you love. Take "one day at a time" and you will be able to work through your grief and pain. Remember all the good times.
Having lived in Walnut Ridge the majority of my life, I know all the Bassett family and do feel your pain. I will keep all of you in my prayers.

Kim Tatman

Saturday, March 14, 2009

We are thinking of you and your family.
Kim and Scott Tatman

Gilbert & Jan Rainey

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Our hearts go out to you and we will be praying for you during this time of grief.

Love,
Gilbert and Jan

Holly Stuart

Saturday, March 14, 2009

I will always remember Mike's smile and laughter. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Al & Theresa Simmering

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Dear Bassett Family,
Our deepest sympathy and prayers are with you at this time. May our Heavenly Father hold you close and bring the comfort that only He can give.
With Love,
Al and Theresa Simmering

Larry & Janice Cook

Saturday, March 14, 2009

We remember Mike as a always up 100% postitive type person, always had a smile on his face and a kind word to say anytime you would see him. He will be greatly missed by us, and we are so sorry for your loss... Larry and Janice Cook

Jamie Jones

Saturday, March 14, 2009

To the family of Mike Bassett: Our family is grieving with you and keeping you close in our thoughts and prayers in this time of sorrow and loss. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you and we ask God's blessing and healing hand to be especially on each of you at this time. Jamie and Ceal Jones and family

Jeff Hildebrand

Saturday, March 14, 2009

We will all miss Brother Bassett. We all have many stories about Mike which will carry on with us forever and ever. My prayers are with him and his family

Robin Brewer

Saturday, March 14, 2009

I send my deepest sympathy to the family of Mike.

Matthew Stovall

Saturday, March 14, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours during this time of loss in your family. I will always fondly recall Miichael as the QB and young leader of one of my father's "best" HS football teams. My father held Mike is such high regard then as a young man and even more as the man he became later in life. My parents phoned me about Mike's passing on March 12. The entire Stovall family is saddened by the loss of Mike, but is blessed by being a "small" part of a wonderful man's life. May God bless you and yours always...

David Worlow

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Mrs. Bassett, I am so sorry for your loss. I know it is of little solace at this time, but in time I hope you take comfort in the fact that you and Dud bore and raised a wonderful child who became a man who made such a positive difference in the world - to his son, parents, wife, brothers, nephews and everyone he interacted with. I never heard or know of anyone who did not think the world of Mike Bassett.

Jerry, I know you must be just devastated. I don't know what to say, but please let me know of anything I can do. I know you are going to miss him greatly. Jerry, I know it is the farthest thing from your mind right now, but if I can help you this weekend or Monday with any logistics, do not hesitate to call me. My number is 870-219-4144.

Clarence & Nancy Trice

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Please accept our most sincere condolences in the passing of Mike. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, especially Brett and Dud, with whom we have spent many happy hours along with Mike in the past.

Marijane Pfeiffer

Friday, March 13, 2009

I am so sad to hear about Bassett. Mike was a great man, with a great heart. My thoughts and prayers will be with you in this tough time. May God bless you and your family and keep you strong.

Jackie Jones New

Friday, March 13, 2009

Dear Bassett Family,
I am saddenned to hear of the loss of Mike.
May your hearts find peace and comfort.
Please know that all of you are close in my thoughts and prayers.
With my deepest sympathy,
Jackie

Ellen Collar Guthrie

Friday, March 13, 2009

Our deepest sympathy to the Bassett Family, Gari and Brett in the loss of Mike. Our families lived in the same neighborhood and attended school with Mike, Dud and Barry. May God give you much comfort in the days ahead. Ellen, Jeannie, Steve, Janna and Lea Collar.

Edna Dickey White

Friday, March 13, 2009

I am very sadden by the news of Mike's passing. I knew Mike during all of his Walnut Ridge school years as a classmate and friend. He would always make me laugh. My thought and prayers are with you and your families.

Linda Johnson Phillips

Friday, March 13, 2009

I've know Mike all of his life. He will always be a little boy in my mind. I graduated high school with his brother Dud.

Nancy & Chip Bell

Friday, March 13, 2009

Dear Family,
We are so very, very sorry about the loss of Mike. We only wish we had gotten to know him. We cherish his family legacy and are so very honored to be a part of the Basset Family.
Love,
Nancy & Chip

Robert & Tracy Jones

Friday, March 13, 2009

Gari, Brett & the rest of the family,
Mike was one of the good guys. He will be greatly missed and always remembered.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.

Sheryl New

Friday, March 13, 2009

Dear Gari...I am so very sorry about Mike...my heart goes out to you and Brett. I just saw you guys about 2 mos ago at The Villa. Mike and I talked for an hour about you and his Mom and brothers and of course, his Brett...he was so happy and so proud of his family.
I am so thankful I saw you that night. It's just so hard to understand why ...but I do pray that God will comfort you and all of the family!!! Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless You!!

Sheryl & Stan New
Mollie Abernathy's aunt

Walter Morris Jr.

Friday, March 13, 2009

We loved our brother. Thanks for the great example you set for us.

Thea Sanchez

Friday, March 13, 2009

My heart goes out to you Gari and all your family. I'll pray for you during this time.

Kim Cook

Friday, March 13, 2009

Gari,

We were very sorry to hear about Mike. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Please know that we are here for you now and always.

Deepest Sympathy


John and Kim Cook

Jeff Taylor

Friday, March 13, 2009

Just wanted to pass along my sympathy to the Bassett and friends family. While Mike was several years older in High School than me. He was a great role model and athlete for us to look up to. God Bless

Carol Stroud

Friday, March 13, 2009

Gari and other members of the family. My heart is so saddened by the passing of Mike. The Lord will give you inner strength to endure this time that you didn't even know you had. I am so sorry Gari and you are in my thoughts and I am praying for you.

Love you.

Bill Birch

Friday, March 13, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.

Robert & Rebecca Davis

Friday, March 13, 2009

My wife and I are deeply saddened by this loss, our condolences to the Bassett family. We only knew Mike for a short time, but it was filled with affability and laughter. I will miss a great golfing partner and fellow Hog Fan.

Jason Whittington

Friday, March 13, 2009

He will be missed. I often went to Mike's office for great advice and to share a laugh, our talks where legendary. I considered Mike a mentor. I will miss his notorious grin, his laugh, and his ability to brighten my day.

My prayers will be with the Bassett Family

-Jason

Candice Freeland

Friday, March 13, 2009

Mike was a great man and definitely livened up a room with his presence. I have worked with Mike for two years at First Security. You could be in the worst mood ever and Mike could cheer you up with one smile. He will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

God Bless,
Candice

Denean Jones

Friday, March 13, 2009

To my friend and co-worker Gari Bassett and Family. May God be with you and help you through this time of bereavement. Mike was a great friend of mine for a just a short time and he will be truly missed. God Bless you all and my prayers are with you.

Pat Arthur

Friday, March 13, 2009

God Bless you Brother, you will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to the Bassett Family.

Sandra Smith

Friday, March 13, 2009

I am so, so sorry for your loss. It was a terrible shock to all of us. My prayers and thoughts are with you. God give you peace and strength through this time of need.

Greg Horton

Friday, March 13, 2009

Mike was a great friend and always brightened up the room. He will be greatly missed. His family will be in my prayers.

Pam Struthers

Friday, March 13, 2009

Dear Gary & Brett,

It has been years since I worked with and have seen Mike, but please know, my thoughts and prayers are with the two of you and your entire family. Mike was a great guy!!!

Cindy Lewis Blackshear

Friday, March 13, 2009

I graduated from high school with Mike and have not seen him in over 30 years. I am very sadden by the news of Mike's death.
My condolences to the family.
God bless,
Cindy

Anna Marie McKewen

Friday, March 13, 2009

Gari Lynn & Brett,
I am so sorry for your loss. I know you have some wonderful memories of Mike, as we all have. I love you both and Mike too. Love you, Anna Marie
See you in a few days. P. S. We got the fax.

Carolyn Fox

Friday, March 13, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I will miss you, my cousin. Lots of love to all our family.

Carolyn (Long) and Steve Fox

Miles Johnson

Friday, March 13, 2009

My thoughts and prayers go out the Bassetts. I have nothing but fond memories of Mike many years ago in Walnut Ridge. I am shocked and saddened by his passing.

Steve Bryles

Friday, March 13, 2009

Very sad.

Timothy Campbell

Friday, March 13, 2009

Dud, Barry, and Mrs. Bassett, May the confort of the Holy Spirit be with you now. If I could do anything to take the pain away, I would. I have fond memories of Mike. Even though he was very popular, he always treated me well. I also remember going to vacation Bible school with him each year. My prayers are with you all. You are a great family and I pray the Christ will be close to you during this time and in the days to come.

Bob Butler

Friday, March 13, 2009

Debbie and I are praying for your family. My pledge brother and roommate that I will miss dearly.

Debbie Bratcher Brown

Friday, March 13, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with all the Bassett family. I have such fond memories of Mike from high school. I never heard him say or be ugly in all the years I knew him. He was the real deal. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Norm Neece

Thursday, March 12, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with Mike and his family. I have fond memories of Mike and his brothers from high school. He will be remembered and missed.

jimmy caprio

Thursday, March 12, 2009

i am so sorry to here of the loss of Mike and my prayers and thoughts are with you. may the lord be with you at this time of need. god bless all my love.jimmy

Pat & Curtis Jeffries

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Love you, Bassett!
Trim and Miss Pat

Roxann Hill Smith

Thursday, March 12, 2009

May you find comfort in your fond memories and in the friends that care for you.

Cheryl Segraves Dobbs

Thursday, March 12, 2009

I am deeply saddened to hear about Mike. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Mike was greatly loved by all our classmates at WRHS. He will be greatly missed, but thought of with love forever.

Kayla Lybrand

Thursday, March 12, 2009

I'm thinking of you and praying for you and your family.

Justin Simmering

Thursday, March 12, 2009

My thoughts and Prayers are with your Family. May God be your Crutch in this time of Sorrow and I say without hesitation, Heaven has it's newest Hog Fan.

Michael Ragsdale

Thursday, March 12, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Janice Johnson

Thursday, March 12, 2009

With heartfelt sympathy. I will always remember his smiling face. Janice Johnson