James E. Bassford, son of Chauncy Ellis and Lila Mae (Miller) Bassford, was born December 3, 1933 in the Galloway Hospital at Anthony, Kansas. Jim, as he was known to family and friends, attended schools in Anthony and graduated with the class of 1951.
On October 21, 1954, Jim joined the United States Army to serve his country. Upon his honorable discharge July 20, 1956, Jim completed three semesters of college at Northwestern University in Alva, OK, while also helping his Dad on the family farm.
On April 18, 1958 Jim was united in marriage with Carol L. Bebermeyer and established their first home on a farm at Anthony. Jim and Carol bought their permanent home west of Harper, KS in 1962. Three daughters were welcomed into their family, Debra, Amy and Julie.
Jim and Carol worked together on the farm, raising sheep, cattle, wheat, alfalfa, and feed. They were active in 4-H and were always at the Harper County Fair, taking part .in all of the activities.
Jim loved his family, and had a very strong work ethic. He was an excellent steward of the land and enjoyed his cows and calves. Jim had a great sense of humor and always had a story to tell.
He was baptized into the United Methodist Church in Anthony and when they moved to Harper, he transferred his membership to the Harper United Methodist Church.
On May 16, 2012, Jim passed away at the Harper Hospital at the age of 78 years.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Cole Augustyn March 12, 2011; and his sister, Barbara Newsum, who passed away five days earlier, May 11, 2012.
Jim will be deeply missed by his wife of 54 years, Carol Bassford of the home in Harper; his daughters: Debra Augustyn, of Harper, Amy Duncan of Westmoreland, KS, and Julie Blunk and her husband, Rod of Alva, OK; four grandchildren: Will Augustyn, Cody Duncan, and Chloe and Cort Blunk; and a host of other relatives and many friends.