James Tindall Baskett's Obituary
James Tindall "J.T." Baskett, 80, of Rock Island, IL, formerly of Boonville, passed away on Friday, January 19th, 2024, at his home. Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 17, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Morgan Street Baptist Church in Boonville. Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at the church on Saturday.
James Tindell Baskett (J.T.) aka Big Fella age 82 of Rock Island Illinois, formerly of Boonville, MO, passed away January 19th 2024 at his home. He is survived by his brothers Oscar (Anna) Kemp, Columbia, MO Fredrick Kemp, Boonville, Larry Kemp, Macon, Mo. Sister, Gloria Collins, Kansas City, MO And a host of Nieces, nephews, cousins, and family. He is preceded in death by his loving wife Delores J Baskett, Father, Alin McKee Sr. His beautiful mother Amy Kemp, brother Alin McKee, brother, Charles McKee, brother Kim Lee Kemp and his dear sister Sharon Jane Kemp
James was born February 7th, 1941, in Fayette Missouri to Ms. Amy Kemp where he grew up. Moved to Boonville around 17 years of age. He met and later married Delores J. Williams on September 17th 1960 at her parent’s home in Boonville MO, where they lived until moving to Rock Island, IL. Even though there were no children from this union, he and his wife embraced and loved their nieces and nephews as their own.
He worked and retired from John Deere after 26 years of service. He was known for his strong work ethic, and he took care of his wife and family. He loved to gamble at the racetracks and the riverboat. He was a very structured man with a daily routine. He would take care of his business first before going to visit some of his favorite spots like Bucks tavern or the Elks Lodge.
J.T. will always be remembered for his funny sayings. like... “Ok sis I know” or “Go on and rest yourself” and how he denounced the whole state of Mississippi. Don’t ever say that he or his folks was from Mississippi because they wasn’t and he will let you know that real quick. We could not have asked for a better Son, Brother, Uncle, Husband, Father, and Friend. He will be greatly missed.
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