Cleta Fae Basinger

Cleta Basinger passed away on December 19, 2025; she was 90 years old. Her father made his living in the oil fields and Cleta spent her early years moving around small oilfield towns in the Permian Basin.

After graduating high school, there was college. Cleta's father had to borrow money to send her to college and she remembered that the loan officer had said that she had no business going to college, despite being a good student. Nonetheless, the loan was made and Cleta, in due time, earned her Bachelor's degree. She was involved in many campus activities and honor societies.

After graduating college and working, she met and married Bob Basinger; they were married over 60 years and had one son. Cleta was a devoted wife and mother and prioritized taking care of the family. There were several moves as her husband pursued his career; she made each home pleasant, often on a tight budget. She made sure that everyone was happy.

Cleta and Bob moved to the Austin area and lived there in retirement for over 30 years. Cleta was a dangerous puzzle player, an avid reader, a dutiful gardener, a casual painter, and a resigned mall walker. Walking on the neighborhood sidewalks proved too hard on her knees.

Cleta's love for her family will always be remembered. She was a cherished wife and mother, and she will be missed. Preceded in death by her husband, she is survived by her son.