Basil Serour

Basil was born on January 15, 1928 in Utica, NY, to George and Jameela Saco Srour. He was predeceased by four brothers (James, Michael, Anthony, Joseph) and four sisters (Susan, Julia, Ann, Marie.)

Upon graduating from Proctor High School in 1945, Basil enlisted in the U.S. Naval Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1947.

In 1949 on August 3, Basil married the love of his life, Dorothy Mae Nye. They relocated to Oneida, NY, where Basil worked with his brother at Srour’s Market. In 1959, Basil , Dot, and their three children moved back to Utica at which time Basil owned and operated Tripp’s Liquor. His next career move was as an inspector for the U.S. Agriculture Dept.

Basil was a longtime sports enthusiast who was well known in the Utica area. He thoroughly enjoyed golfing, working out, bowling, watching sports, and talking sports! For many years Basil was a high school and college baseball umpire, basketball referee, and soccer referee. He went on to become the Commissioner of Assigning for High School Girls Basketball, as well as Boys and Girls High School Soccer.

Basil and Dot spent summers at their Cedar Lake camp in Clayville, NY, and wintered at their home in the Savanna Club in Port St. Lucie, FL for over 30 years. Basil filled his retirement years with golfing, swimming, spending as much time as possible with family and friends, and reminiscing about “such a great life!”

Basil is survived by his devoted wife of 73 years, Dorothy. He has been blessed with and is survived by his loving children: Linda (Mark) Cole of Baldwinsville, NY, Julia Scranton of Utica, NY, and George (Mary) Serour of Port St. Lucie, FL; cherished grandchildren: John (Ashley), Katherine (Gary), Matthew, Paul, Carly, Bethany, Michael (Kerri), and Rachel; adored great-grandchildren: Elizabeth, Caoimhe, Aoibheann, and Jack; numerous beloved nieces and nephews with special mention of Nancy (Ward) Beeman; and very dear friends Ralph and Marie Bernabei.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, October 8, 2022 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Utica, New York.

For those so wishing, donations in Basil’s name may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or to the charity of one’s choice.

“Cheers Basil! You will forever remain in our hearts!”