News Summary
Mike Basham, a cherished community member of Ruston, Louisiana, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication. A proud alumnus of Louisiana Tech University, he was actively involved in local sports and devoted to mentoring others throughout his career. Basham was known for his quick wit and love for his family, including his wife and numerous grandchildren. His contributions to the community and church were significant, and he will be remembered fondly by friends and family. A visitation and celebration of life are planned to honor his memory.
Ruston, Louisiana – Mike Basham, a dedicated family man and beloved community member, passed away on April 18, 2025, at the age of 71 at his home. His family and friends are mourning the loss of a man who deeply impacted those around him.
Basham was a proud alumnus of Louisiana Tech University, where he made his mark as a basketball player. After his college career, he remained involved in sports, demonstrating his passion through various roles as a referee, coach, and scorekeeper at Lee Hedges Stadium. His contributions to local athletics showcased his love for the game and commitment to fostering a spirit of sportsmanship in the community.
In addition to his sports activities, Mike had a successful career working for SWEPCO and Watertown. He dedicated much of his time to teaching and mentoring others, creating a lasting impact on many lives through his guidance and support. Recreationally, he found joy in outdoor activities such as golfing, deer hunting, and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, often enthusiastically cheering them on.
Known for his quick wit and infectious smile, Mike never met a stranger, and he enjoyed engaging in conversations with everyone he encountered. He was a long-time member of Rose Park Baptist Church, where he spent over 40 years. His family holds fond memories of him occasionally dozing off during sermons, which they recall with humor and affection. Mike valued his church community for the fellowship and spiritual growth it provided, nurturing his faith for decades.
Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Patty Gosdin, and their five children: Tina Tomasek (Trey), Mary Zagone Parker (Mark), Pam Calhoun (Cameron), Nathan Armstrong, and Shelley McWilliams. He was a proud grandfather to 11 grandchildren, including Summer Tomasek, Cody Armstrong, Hunter McWilliams (Haley), Caleb Armstrong (Mai), Baylee Parnell (Zach), Austin Jordan, Hannah Armstrong (Bobby), Nolan Tomasek, Avery Zagone, Poppy Calhoun, and Crawford Calhoun. He also leaves behind his brother John Gosdin (Susan), sister Lisa Smith (Cliff), seven great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Nelda Gosdin, and his brother Steve Gosdin.
A visitation for family and friends will take place at Rose Park Baptist Church on Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Following this, a Celebration of Life is scheduled for Friday, June 13, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the same church. Mike will be interred at Antioch Cemetery in Simsboro, Louisiana.
Active pallbearers for the ceremony will include Trey Tomasek, Mark Parker, Cameron Calhoun, Cody Armstrong, Nathan Armstrong, Hunter McWilliams, Austin Jordan, and Nolan Tomasek. Honorary pallbearers will be Caleb Armstrong, Trenten Parker, and Mike’s cherished golf buddies.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Mike’s memory to Gingerbread House Bossier, an organization that supports children in need. Special thanks are extended to the staff at Willis-Knighton Health System and Encompass Health for their compassionate care during Mike’s final days.
Mike Basham’s legacy is characterized by his laughter, love, and loyalty, and he will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: William Gosdin Obituary
- Wikipedia: Louisiana Tech University
- Shreveport Times: Recent Obituaries
- Google Search: Mike Basham Ruston Louisiana
- Legacy: Stephen Gosdin Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sportsmanship
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