Gayle Basaldu

On the quiet afternoon of October 8th, 2025 at the age of 67, Gayle Basaldu left this world just as she lived in it: peacefully.

Mina Gayle Bickerstaff was born on January 10th,1958 in Athens, Tx to Billy Frank and Mina March Bickerstaff. Gayle (along with her mother, Mina, and brother, Mark) eventually found a home in Fort Worth, Tx. It was here that she became a proud alumna of several communities: James Avenue Baptist Church, Rosemont Middle School, Paschal High School, and Texas Christian University, including many others. But it was at Paschal that Gayle met her long-time love and soulmate, Paul Basaldu, Jr. Married on May 17th of 1980, They began their love story of 45 years of marriage. They shared countless laughs, defined the meaning of true love, and ventured into their next adventure: parenthood. Paul and Gayle welcomed Natali, Kimmie, and Drew into their lives and their family was complete. Almost.

A few decades and a lot of years of learning later, they took on their most treasured roles yet: Lala and Popi. Gayle worshipped her grandchildren and they became her passion. In turn, Abby, Trent, Jaydan, Harper, Sawyer, and Asher loved and cherished their precious Lala.

Gayle was indeed a passionate woman who believed in showing kindness first, never met a stranger, and was fierce in her faith. Her passions included (but were certainly not limited to): her James Avenue youth group, Rosemont meet-ups, Paschal High School Reunions, all things TCU related (of which she proudly attended), and, of course, genealogy. She loved researching, discovering, and sharing information of generations upon generations of family history. Gayle was also greatly obsessed with the Royal Family, a sweet quirk that was only surpassed by her greatest obsession of all: making her grandchildren feel supported and loved. She rarely missed an opportunity to become a staple in the stands, on the sidelines, or in the audience with Paul by her side.

Gayle was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Mina Bickerstaff, grandparents Winifred and Clara Clark, grandparents Herod and Gertrude Bickerstaff, uncle Perry Clark, and aunt Kay Worthington.

She is survived by her aunt, Sharon Clark, and brother, Mark Bickerstaff. Gayle is also survived by her husband, Paul Basaldu, Jr. and by her daughter, Natali Logue (and husband, Jay), daughter, Kimberly (and husband, Nick), and son, Andrew Basaldu. Gayle's legacy lives on in her grandchildren: Abigail, Trenton, and Jaydan Salem, Harper and Sawyer Panfil, and Asher Basaldu, who each loved her abundantly and fiercely.

Gayle had a saying that has always held true: "It takes so little to be above average." She certainly led a life that was above average, indeed.

The viewing will be held on October 17th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Blessing Funeral Home. The memorial service will be held on October 18th beginning at 9 a.m., also at Blessing Funeral Home.

Flower arrangements may be sent to: Blessing Funeral Home 401 Elm Street, Mansfield, Tx 76063. *Purple flowers were a special favorite (Rah Rah TCU).