Richard P. Basile passed away at the age of 77 in his home in Tarboro on December 28, 2023 surrounded by his loving wife.

Rick lived a life of service to his family, community, and students. He began his 30-year career in law enforcement as a patrolman in Albany, New York and retired as the Police Chief in Ithaca, New York. After retiring from law enforcement, Rick and his wife, Katie, moved to Tarboro, North Carolina for Rick to take a position as Program Chair of the Criminal Justice Department at Edgecombe Community College (ECC). Rick was beloved by his students and took great pride in teaching his students at ECC, particularly in his role as advisor to the Criminal Justice Club. In 2019, Rick was honored with the Keihin Endowed Faculty Chair Award for excellence in teaching. This award is the highest award one can receive as faculty at the College.

Rick was a member of the Albany, New York Police Pipes & Drums band, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Free Masons and Knights of Columbus.

Rick was born on December 24, 1946 in Albany, New York, son of Leonard and Antoinette Basile. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen Basile, his children Mike, Mark, Chris, Scott and Liam, and grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers and sister, and son, Ryan Gilroy.

Funeral services will be held at Calvary Episcopal Church on January 3, 2023 at 11 am. A reception will be held at Clark Hall, Calvary Episcopal Church immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Edgecombe Cancer Support Foundation (ECSF) at https://edgecombecancersupport.org, Edgecombe Community College Foundation at 2009 W. Wilson Street, Tarboro, North Carolina 27886 or https://edgecombe.edu/community/ecc-foundation/, or Tender Mercies Pet Organization at 767 NC-124W, Macclesfield, NC 27852 or Home - Tender Mercies Pet OrganizationTender Mercies Pet Organization