John Burr Bassel, III

John Burr Bassel III, age 58, passed away at his home in Knoxville, TN on June 5, 2026.

Burr was born on April 4, 1968 in Nashville, TN to Dr. John Burr Bassel Jr. and the late Mary Letitia Bush Bassel. He graduated from Father Ryan High School, Class of 1986. He then attended the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, where he later earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science.

Burr was a sports enthusiast and an especially avid fan of the TN Vols and LA Dodgers. He enjoyed traveling and exploring new places, including various MLB stadiums. He also loved seeing the horses in Cades Cove.

Burr looked forward to participating in the annual “Night to Shine” event provided through the Tim Tebow Foundation, and he enjoyed spending time with a Cub Scout group known as Pack 193 that served students with special needs. He loved meeting with the boys and their families and attending meetings at Messiah Lutheran Church. Burr was also an excellent bowler, a skill he demonstrated each year at Aaron’s annual bowling parties.

He enjoyed spending time with his family, and was a beloved son, brother, fiancé, father-figure and friend. His kindness, generosity, and jovial presence will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.

Burr was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Letitia Bush Bassel.

He is survived by his Father, Dr. John Burr Bassel Jr., his brothers, Thomas Louis Bassel and David Patrick Bassel, his sisters, Mary Letitia Bassel, Ashley Bassel Griffith (Brian), and Angela Bassel, his long-time partner and fiancé, Dawn Wadsworth and her son, Aaron, along with many nieces and nephews.

Graveside Services will be held on Saturday, June 13 at 3:00PM at Grandview Cemetery in Maryville, TN.