Jack Basil of Bergenfield, NJ, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved him dearly.
What follows is a brief look at the life his family wishes to share.
Jack spent his working life as ['construction as a wire lather'] — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
A life is built quietly, day by day.
John William “Jack” Basil ObituaryJohn William “Jack” Basil, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away surrounded by the love of his family the morning of May 2, 2026. Born on February 21, 1943, in New York City to John George Basil and Angelina Basil (née Martino), Jack was raised in Bergenfield, New Jersey. Later he made his home in Dumont, NJ where he built a life centered on family, kindness, and community.In 1964, Jack married the love of his life, Rita Anne Basil (née Verdile). It was love at first sight for both and they created a lifelong relationship filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Together they raised six children, becoming the large, close-knit family Jack had always dreamed of. He is survived by his children: William (“Bill”) Basil and his wife Tara; Robert (“Bob”) Basil and his wife Sharon; John Basil and his wife Jasmine; Jacqueline (“Jackie”) Joyce and her husband Kevin; and Suzanne (“Suzy”) Basil; and was predeceased by his son Edward Basil in 2016, who was married to Tammy.Jack was a proud and loving grandfather to eight grandchildren: Alex, Matthew, and Grace Basil; Dominique and Johnathan Basil; Benjamin Basil; and Jennifer and James Joyce, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride.Though an only child, Jack grew up surrounded by extended family and friends, shaping his deep appreciation for togetherness and inspiring the warm, lively home he built with Rita. He was known for his compassionate nature, generous spirit, extraordinary storytelling, and quick sense of humor. Jack loved to joke around and had a gift for making others feel comfortable and welcome. He was always ready to lend a helping hand, quietly supporting anyone in need.Jack began his career in construction as a wire lather, working hard to support his growing family. After the birth of his fifth child—his first daughter, following four sons—he transitioned to a new path and became a bus driver for Rockland Coaches. Over the course of 41 years, he became known for his friendliness, reliability, and the genuine care he showed to everyone who stepped onto his bus.Above all, Jack’s greatest pride and joy was his family. His love, humor, and steady presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.Visitation will be held Friday, May 8, 2026, from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM at Riewerts Memorial Home, 187 S. Washington Ave., Bergenfield. A service will be held at Riewerts on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:30 AM. Interment to follow at George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jack’s memory to the Act Now Foundation Dementia Resource Center. Donations are accepted on the website at www.actnowfoundation.org or via check made payable to Act Now Foundation at 400 38th Street Suite 406, Union City, NJ 07087.
