With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of Wellai Basdew, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished friend. Born in Guyana on January 2,1939, Wellai lived a life filled with love, warmth, kindness, and devotion to her family. Wellai passed peacefully on November4, 2026 at the age of 87.
Wellai was the beloved wife of the late Belram Basdeo, with whom she shared 56 wonderful years of marriage until his passing in 2017. Together, they built a life and a family rooted in love and dedication. In the 1980s, they made the journey from Guyana to the United States, where they continued to create lasting memories and a home filled with family.
She was a loving and devoted mother to Cliv Basdeo (Victoria), Rennie Basdeo, Anna Basdeo, and Shar Basdeo, and a proud grandmother to Robin Basdeo-Mahabir and Joshua Basdeo-Mahabir. Her family was the center of her world, and she treasured every moment spent with those she loved.
Wellai found joy in life's simple pleasures. She had a special love for flowers and gardening, taking delight in nurturing the beauty around her. She also loved cooking and bringing people together through food. A friendly and outgoing soul, Wellai had the wonderful gift of gab. She loved a good conversation, enjoyed connecting with others, and had a way of making people feel welcome. Her warmth, generous spirit, and love for her family will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.
Though she is no longer with us, the memories she created, the love she shared, and the lessons she passed down will live on through her children, grandchildren, family, and friends. She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered always.
May she now be reunited with her beloved husband, Belram, and may they rest together in eternal peace.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Vernon C. Wagner Funeral Homes. A Christian prayer service will be held at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Plainlawn Cemetery, Hicksville, New York, where Wellai will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Belram.
Forever loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.
