James "Jim" A. Basile

James “Jim” A. Basile, 85, of Warwick, PA, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on April 21, 2025, at Independence Court of Quakertown.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, Jim was the beloved son of the late John D. Basile and the late Stella (Juszczyk) Basile. A 1958 graduate of North Catholic High School, Jim went on to attend Drexel University before joining his father at their family pizza shop, Basile’s Pizza. His strong work ethic and adventurous spirit eventually led him to a long and fulfilling career as an Owner Operator for Tastykake. He loved the open road and the momentum of the job, which suited his energetic and upbeat nature. After 25 years, Jim retired and turned his lifelong love of birds into a business. Alongside his wife, Joan, he opened Wild Bird Market Place in Huntingdon Valley, a shop that brought nature and joy to the backyards of many in the community.

Following the closure of the store, Jim continued working for another 10 years as a Fleet Equipment Assistant at TridentCare (formerly MobilexUSA), where he remained active and engaged into his later years.

Jim’s interests and talents were as varied as they were remarkable. A skilled artist, he found peace and purpose in painting and drawing. A gifted musician, he played the bassoon with both the Olney Symphony Orchestra and the Bucks County Symphony Orchestra. He earned a black belt in Jujitsu and had a deep appreciation for the discipline and focus of martial arts. A true craftsman, he loved woodworking, building model airplanes and railroads, and tending to his garden—especially his prized fig trees and tomatoes.

Jim was also a natural storyteller. Whether gathered around a kitchen table or chatting with a customer in the shop, he could captivate a room with his tales—always full of humor, heart, and a twinkle in his eye.

But more than anything, Jim will be remembered for his kindness and warmth. He was a gentle, generous soul who never missed an opportunity for a hug, a kiss, or an “I love you.” He greeted everyone with a smile and left each person feeling just a little bit better than before.

Jim will be dearly missed by his loving wife, Joan-Marie (Shearn) Carsello-Basile, together they shared 30 loving years of marriage; his children, Donna Basile-Iannacone, Christina Panebianco (Frank), John D. Basile (Angela), Dana Lupinacci (Nick) and Alicia Martino (Frank); his grandchildren, Joseph Iannacone (Shannon), Dayna Lauser (Dylan), Frankie Panebianco (Ahmad), Jordyn Basile, Dominic Basile, Dominic Lupinacci, Giuliana Martino, and Matteo Martino, his great-grandchildren, Vincent, Lucas, Theo, Noelle, Benjamin, and his nephew and nieces., who will carry forward his legacy of love, laughter, creativity, and curiosity.

Jim was preceded in death by his first wife, Arlene (Carsello) Basile; his brother-in-law, Paul Carsello, his sister, Barbara (Rocchi) Basile; his brother-in-law, James Rocchi; and many other cherished family members and friends who welcomed him with open arms.

All arrangements are made by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, Ltd. 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA 18951. (215-536-3343)

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim’s name to The Alzheimer's Foundation