William Bassett

William Robert "Bob" Bassett, 84, of Itasca, Texas, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on August 26, 2025, in Grandview, Texas.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Marshall and Marshall Funeral Directors in Hillsboro. Funeral services will take place at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Hillsboro, with Pastor Daniel Tanguma officiating.

Bob was born on March 20, 1941, to William Salah and Ivy Dee Bassett in Henderson, Texas. He graduated from Henderson High School in 1959, then attended Kilgore College on a trombone scholarship. After two years, he transferred to the University of North Texas, where he earned a bachelor's degree. While at UNT, he met the love of his life, Linda, and they married on October 31, 1964. They often joked that they never figured out who was the "trick" and who was the "treat" in their Halloween elopement.

The couple moved to Houston, where Bob taught bookkeeping at M.B. Smiley High School for four years. After relocating to Itasca, he began a 33-year career at LTV/Lockheed Martin, serving in a variety of roles. In addition to his full-time work, Bob farmed his land and cared for his cattle-his work ethic and dedication to providing for his family were constants throughout his life.

A devoted Christian, Bob was a faithful member of Central Baptist Church of Itasca and later First Baptist Church of Hillsboro. While at Central Baptist, he led the Rio Grande Valley River Ministry for 22 years, organizing mission trips that provided Vacation Bible School, construction projects, and revival services across South Texas. Through this work, countless lives were touched for Christ. Bob also served his church in many capacities: as a deacon, choir member, Sunday School superintendent, church treasurer, Sunday School teacher, and a nursing home ministry volunteer.

Bob and Linda loved traveling together, attending gospel concerts, and spending time with their family. After retiring in 2000, Bob stayed busy managing a number of rental properties, living by his motto: "I don't sell anything-I buy." Known for his kindness and generous spirit, Bob never met a stranger and lived each day with a servant's heart. His family was his greatest joy, and he loved them deeply.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Linda, his parents Salah and Ivy, and his twin infant brother Ronnie. He is survived by his sister Delores and husband Mike Toon; sons: William "Allan" and wife Carrie, Joseph "Brian" and wife Tara, and Stephen Craig and wife Lauren. He is also survived by his several cousins, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, Hillsboro, Texas.