Obituary of James Andrew Basinger, Jr.

James A. "Jimmie" Basinger passed away peacefully on March 9th. He is now reunited with his beloved wife, Betty, who preceded him in death in December, 2020. Jim was a native Charlottean, and attended Old Central High School. He graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill after his service in World War II. Jim was in the 34th Bomber Group based in Mendleshon England and flew 32 missions over Germany. He flew on a B-17 serving as an assistant radio man and waste gunner. In addition to his medals and accolades, Jim was awarded the French "Legion of Honor" award in 2016. Jim began his sales career with the General Coal Company. He enjoyed many successes selling train car loads of coal to power companies and industrial plants in North Carolina and Virginia. Jim then found what would be his lifelong calling, real estate sales, joining his father's firm, Basinger Realty in 1961. He would quickly find his footing and become a top producer in Charlotte, leading the local MLS in sales for several years in the early '60's. Jimmie began his leadership roles in 1969 when he was elected President of the Charlotte Association of Realtors. In 1974 he was awarded the Harlan Cup as Charlotte's "Realtor of the Year". Additionally, in 1974 he won the state association's "Regional Service Award" for his contributions to the profession on the state level. In 1988 he was elected President of the North Carolina Association of Realtors and in 1991 was named that association's "Realtor of the Year", their highest honor. In 1995 Jim was inducted into the NCAR's "Realtor Hall of Fame". Jimmie was then elected to serve as a Director for the National Association of Realtors. He and Betty traveled the country in this role advocating for the Realtor profession. Jim was very proud to have mentored hundreds of Fellow Realtors locally and encouraged them to maintain a high degree of professionalism to their peers and to the public. His love of his industry and unwavering desire to serve others in a kind manner, endeared him to everyone who had the opportunity to know him and work with him. His impeccable reputation in the market place was borne from his honesty, integrity and evenhanded approach to fellow Realtors and the public he served. Jimmie and Betty were long time members of St. Marks Lutheran Church. He served on the Church council and taught Sunday school classes for many years. Into their 80's, they enjoyed serving as greeters at St. Marks and welcomed visitors with their wonderful smiles. Jim loved his family. He adored his wife and children as was blessed to have a chance to cherish two grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He was a master of hand written notes of kindness and encouragement that seemed to arrive just the right time in our lives. Many friends remember his little nuggets of wisdom affectionately called "Jimmieisums" or "Basingerisums". Jim was also a 32nd degree Mason and Shriner. He supported many causes including Wounded Warriors, Paralyzed Veterans, N.C. Affordable Housing and was especially involved in Friendship Trays - his favorite charity. He enjoyed delivering meals to those in need for many years. Jimmie was predeceased by his wife, Betty, and survived by his two sons: Drew (Sally) and David (Lisa); two grandsons: Justin and Brandon; and two great grandchildren: James and Nolan. He is loved and remembered by many nephews and nieces who will miss him greatly. The family would like to thank Dad's caregivers who provided such loving care over the past several months. They include: Hospice of Charlotte, CMC Mercy, Carrington Skilled Nursing, and Cadence Assisted Living. The family could not be more grateful for the kindnesses shown to our Father. Arrangements are in the care of St. Marks and Hankins and Whittington. A memorial service to honor his life will be arranged at a later time. Gifts or memorials may be sent to Friendship Trays of Charlotte or St. Mark's Soup Kitchen or the donor's chosen charity.