Paul Gene Basinger

Paul Gene Basinger, age 81, of McLoud, Oklahoma, passed away on May 31st, 2023 surrounded by his loving family.   

Paul was born to Millard and Margaret Basinger on December 26th, 1941 in Harrah, Oklahoma.  Paul loved playing basketball in high school, but grew into an avid outdoorsman.  He loved hunting and fishing and could be found many days behind a fishing pole or rifle or spending time with friends and families exchanging exciting fishing and hunting tales.  Paul was known by many names and lived up to each one with love, kindness, and a quiet demeanor that everyone respected.  Husband, Dad and Papa, he was great at all of them!  He was known for his easy-going, laid back personality and a one of a kind smile.  

Paul is survived by his wife of almost 62 years, Etta Mae, or Ellie Mae as he lovingly referred to her. He is survived by brother, Dwayne Basinger and his wife Martha, sister Carolyn McMillion and her husband Larry, and brother Dean Basinger. Paul is survived by his four children and one foster son.  Dennis Basinger and his wife Denise, Ray Basinger and his wife Jerlin, Toby Basinger and his wife Krista, Donna Wilson and her husband, Tracy, and foster son, Mark Elliston and his wife Kelly. Surviving grandchildren are Lauren Griffin and her husband Zac, Joshua Basinger, Chad Whitnah and his wife Heather, Dakotah Basinger and his wife Jennifer, Ariel Young and her husband Casey, Shelbie Vaughn and her husband Rob, Mason Basinger, Tristen Wenzel and her husband Brendan, Maellen Wilson, Garret Wilson, Luke Elliston and his wife Erika, Logan Elliston and his wife Emily, and twenty-three great-grandchildren, many of which inherited his love for fishing “gene”.  He is also survived by numerous other relatives and friends who loved him dearly.  His absence will be felt forever, but we know we will see him again one day.

Paul is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Ellen Roye and his granddaughter Sarah Perzanowski.

Paul’s family will host a celebration of life on Tuesday, June 6th at 12:00 at Life Church in Shawnee, OK. 

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