Basil James Colebrooke, Jr., 70
November 23, 1954 – October 21, 2025
Basil James Colebrooke, Jr., was born on November 23rd, 1954, in Nassau, Bahamas, to Basil James Colebrooke, Sr., and Mary Louise Lockridge Colebrooke.
Basil was a man whose presence could light up any room. He never met a stranger — every person he encountered quickly became a friend. His heart was big, his laughter contagious, and his love for God, people, and family was unmatched.
He was an avid fisherman who found peace on the water and joy in every catch. In his quiet moments, he loved crafting small wooden rocking chairs, each one made with care and a touch of his signature warmth. But his greatest pride and joy was his famous sweet potato pie — a recipe that brought family and friends together time and again.
Basil accepted Christ at an early age and united with White Hill Baptist Church under the pastorage of his grandfather, Rev. James Lockridge. There, he remained a faithful member until his transition, serving diligently in the Usher Ministry, Transportation Ministry, and Security Ministry. He took great pride in serving at his post each Sunday, warmly greeting members and guests, and faithfully watching over the Children’s Church. His commitment to service reflected his deep love for God and his desire to help others. Basil was a faithful employee of Midsouth Packers, Bryan Foods, and Sara Lee until his health failed. His dedication, strong work ethics, and positive attitude earned him the respect and admiration of his coworkers and friends alike.
Basil leaves to cherish his memory one son, Shun Pounds (Haley) of Starkville, MS; one brother, Reco Colebrooke (Jan); and five sisters, Tamara Trice (Robert “Joe”) of Verona, MS, Daphne (Brian) Hinson of Houston, TX, Cheryl Colebrooke of Chicago, IL, Ada Pannell and Shirley (Mitchell) Kohlheim, both of Tupelo, MS. He also leaves one God-sister, Mattie Holliday of Okolona, MS; one aunt, Mary Dean (Cleveland) Cornelius of Racine, WI; and one uncle, James Arthur (Maggie) Lockridge of Beloit, WI.
He will be fondly remembered by three nephews: Ken (Perla) Lockridge of Ecru, MS; Robert Trice II of Tupelo, MS; and Corwin (Megan) Colebrooke of Ames, IA; one niece, Jaz (Darrell) Buchanan of Tupelo, MS; five great-nephews, three great-nieces; his best friends, Elton Sampson and Izola Holliday of Tupelo, MS, a host of cousins, an innumerable amount of friends, and a church family whom he dearly adored.
He was preceded in death by his father, Basil Colebrooke, Sr.; his mother, Mary Louise Lockridge Judon; two brothers, Arnett Judon, Jr. and Howard Judon; one sister, Lena (the late Willie B.) Townsend; two aunts, Marjorie Montgomery and Eula Gilliam; one uncle, Jodie Lockridge, and his best friends, Michael “Smoov” Fields and Cedric Tate.
Basil will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, and his unwavering faith. His legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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VIEWING
Grayson-Porter’s Mortuary
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401 N Spring St.
Tupelo, MS 38802
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CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICE
White Hill M. B. Church
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1987 S. Eason Blvd.
Tupelo, MS 38804
