Bradley Dee Bassett

In every room, there’s that one charismatic presence who seems larger than life — the person who fills the space with an infectious smile and a booming laugh. That was Brad Bassett. He loved deeply, laughed often, and had a way of making everyone around him feel seen and welcome.

With heavy and broken hearts, we announce that Bradley Dee Bassett passed away in the early morning hours of January 13, 2026, as the result of a tragic traffic accident while on his way to work. Brad was preceded in death by his Father Dee, Mother Pat and sisters Angela and Teresa. Brad is survived by his wife Tamra Ann, children, Cassidy Marie, Abigail Anne, Logan Bradley (Jaide Makelle Porter), brothers Wayne Bredehoft (Tina), Tom Bassett (Kelly) and sisters Rhonda Cole and Leslie Bassett.

Born on October 5, 1974 in Montpelier, Idaho, to Patricia Marie Patterson Bassett and Loran Dee Bassett, Brad was the youngest of seven children. A preemie at birth, he was so tiny that his father lovingly joked he looked like “mud on a stick,” small enough to fit in the palm of Dee’s hand. In a twist that would become part of his story, that tiny baby grew into a giant of a man.

Brad cherished his childhood in Grace, Idaho, where days were spent riding bikes along quiet country roads and playing among the old cars his mechanic father kept around the family shop — memories that helped shape the man he would become.

Brad attended both elementary school and high school in Grace, Idaho, where he formed friendships that would shape his life. Many of his closest bonds began in his earliest school years and grew stronger with time. His friendship with Jacob Gepford and John Hegstrom endured through every season of life, remaining as close and meaningful as brotherhood to this day.

During his high school years, Brad was involved in just about everything. He wrestled, played football and basketball, and played the saxophone in the marching band — embracing each activity with the same energy and enthusiasm he brought to all parts of his life.

In his junior year, Brad decided to try out for the school musical. To everyone’s amazement, he revealed an angelic bass singing voice he had kept hidden until then, even from his parents. He was cast in the leading male role, and that moment opened the door to a deep love of music and performance.

While still in high school, Brad went on to sing and dance at the Pink Garter Theatre in Jackson Hole, Wyoming — an experience he cherished dearly. His parents were immensely proud of his musical talent and encouraged him to nurture it. Brad was often invited to sing at various events and would later become part of several choirs in church and at Idaho State University.

At the age of eighteen, with the loving guidance of dear friends, Brad was introduced to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was soon baptized into the faith, and in 1994 he was called to serve a mission in Concepción, Chile. It was there that he met his wife, Tamra Ann Kesner Bassett, who was also serving in the same mission.

Brad dearly loved the people of Chile and treasured his time serving among them. He often shared funny and heartwarming stories from those years, memories filled with joy, growth, and connection. His natural charisma shone brightly, and the people were drawn to his warm smile, genuine kindness, and sincere friendship — qualities that defined Brad throughout his life.

After returning home in 1996, Brad and Tamra — his wife of nearly thirty years — were sealed in the Portland, Oregon Temple on November 29, 1996. Brad was a devoted, kind, and loving husband who cherished his family and showed his love for them consistently throughout his life.

In May 1998, Brad and Tamra welcomed their first daughter, Cassidy. Abigail followed in April 2000, and finally, Logan was born in February 2002. It was as if Brad was born to be a father. The light and joy in his eyes at the birth of each child were unmatched. When Jaide Makelle Porter married Logan, in 2023, and joined our family he couldn’t have been more thrilled.

Being there for his family was always a priority for Brad. He rarely missed a basketball game, track meet, softball game, swim meet, or lacrosse match, cheering them on with pride at every opportunity. Brad delighted in laughing with his kids, playing games, and taking them to the movies. He teased them endlessly and kept the family smiling with a constant stream of humorous memes in the family group chat. He also loved singing Karaoke with his family and would often get the whole family singing his favorite songs. His playful spirit and limitless love made every moment with him truly unforgettable.

Brad treasured every moment with his family, and family vacations held a special place in his heart. He was already planning next summer’s trip, excited to share it with the newest light of his life—his angelic granddaughter, Oakley Dean Bassett, born just a month ago. More than anything, Brad wanted Oakley to call him “Big Papa.” He even had a hat with a leather patch that joyfully labeled him as “Papa.” That wasn’t quite right so, with a Sharpie, he wrote in bold letters “BIG” above papa and proudly wore it everywhere.

The bond between Brad and Oakley was truly extraordinary, a connection that will endure even beyond his passing. The first time he laid eyes on her, tears welled up, and his heart brimmed with love—it was a moment of pure, unforgettable beauty.

Brad’s life was a testament to love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. From his early days in Grace, Idaho, to his adventures in Chile, from the music that filled his soul to the countless memories he created with those he cherished, Brad lived fully and wholeheartedly. He was a devoted husband, a proud and playful father, a doting Big Papa, and a friend whose kindness, humor, and charisma left an indelible mark on everyone he met. Though his passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, the joy, warmth, and love he shared will live on in the hearts of all who knew him—reminding us that a life lived with generosity of spirit and depth of heart leaves a legacy that lasts eternally.

Viewings for Brad will be held on Friday, January 23rd, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., and again on Saturday, January 24th, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the Chapel Rd. LDS Church, 300 Chapel Rd., Pocatello, Idaho 83201.

After the viewing, Brad’s Celebration of Life will begin at 11:00 a.m.in the Chapel Rd. LDS Church on Saturday, followed immediately by his burial in Central Cemetery, near Grace, Idaho at 920 ID-34, Grace, ID 83241.

Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting the Guestbook below.