Denise A. Basley

Denise Ann Basley, 66, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully surrounded by family at 10:13 p.m. Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

Denise was born December 8, 1959 in Waubun, Minnesota, the daughter of James and Gladys (Taylor) Flicek. After graduating high school, she earned her AAS from Carl Sandburg College. Denise worked at Maytag for several years until becoming a stay-at-home mom to her sons.

Nothing made Denise happier than being with her family, especially her grandchildren. She was a great cook who loved hosting her family for all holiday meals. Denise enjoyed reading and crafts. She was very talented at crochet and gifted many of her loved ones blankets that will be cherished. Denise will be long remembered as a jokester, who always had a smile on her face. We will miss her unwavering optimism and calming presence.

Denise married Fred Lee Basley Sr. on February 27, 1984 in Galesburg, Illinois. He preceded her in death on August 21, 1999. Denise is survived by two sons, Erik (Kellie) Basley of Galesburg, Illinois and Nicholas (Jessica) Basley of Geneseo, Illinois; four children of her beloved husband, Jocelyn Basley, Fred (Lisa) Basley, Carolyn Basley, and Joi Basley; and her six grandchildren, Evalyn, Lucy, Scarlyt, Ameliyah, D’Angelo, and Elijah. She is also survived by a brother, John (Lisa) Flicek of Cameron, Illinois; a sister, Diane Adkisson of Macomb, Illinois; and the grandchildren, and great grandchildren of her beloved husband, Fred. Along with her parents and husband, Denise was preceded in death by two brothers, Jeff Flicek and Jerome Flicek, as well as the son of her beloved husband, William Basley.

Visitation will be 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Monday, October 26, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory in Galesburg, IL with funeral services following at 1:00 p.m. Cremation will be accorded following services. Memorials can be made to the family in care of the funeral home. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.