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Pastor Kenneth Basnight


Sunrise: November 28, 1959

Sunset: March 10, 2023

Kenneth Andre Basnight transitioned to be with the Lord on Friday, March 10, 2023, at his home in Portsmouth, VA surrounded by his loved ones. Born in Norfolk, VA on November 28, 1959 from the union of Shelbert Leo Basnight, Sr. and Barbara Lee Basnight.

Kenneth was a product of Norfolk Public Schools (Granby High School). And, proceeded on to pursed a career in autobody mechanics. He spent his early years working alongside his father to gain his experience and expertise as a mechanic, and eventually became a professional business owner.

As a youth Kenneth enjoyed Hot Roding and continued to be a collector of model cars. His artistry for decorating cars led to his successful business of “pimping out rides.”

As a young adult he received Christ into his life and later was called to serve in ministry. He was a faithful servant, leader, and served in various Pastoral positions. Notably, he was the Pastor at God is in Control Ministry. Soon after that, God led him to start Golden Age Food for Life, where he feed the hungry and Senior Citizens.

Kenneth was compassionate, committed and loved talking about Jesus. His teachings were powerfully personal, revelational and inspiring. Among his many talents and gifts, he was an extraordinary musician (drummer). 

One of his most recent hobbies included his love for water and riding his jet skis. 

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.  He especially loved spending time with his family and friends.  He was a giver and loved making people happy. He influenced many people’s lives, and was loved by all.  

Kenny’s ultimate goal in life was to share the goodness of the Lord.  

He is survived by his wife Gwendolyn Basnight of Portsmouth, Virginia. Other survivors include his children, Phillip Cowell Sr., Shawna Cowell, Donavon Basnight, Alesha Basnight, grandkids are Phillip Cowell Jr., N’Dia Cowell, Cane Horton, great grandkids Rayne Cowell and Na’Sia Trotter Other survivors include Maurice Wood, Judy Williams, Leo Basnight, Lizzette Basnight, Evette Basnight-Little (Douglas), Teresa Dillard and Lawson Basnight (Kenya).

Viewing Thursday, March 16, 2023 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM Metropolitan Funeral Service 7246 Granby Street Norfolk, Virginia Celebration of Life Friday, March 17, 2023 11:00 AM Metropolitan Funeral Service 7246 Granby Street Norfolk, Virginia Laid To Rest Roosevelt Memorial Park 1101 Campostella Road Chesapeake, Virginia

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Condolences(11)

  1. reply
    Vee Howellv says

    To Evette and the Basnight family, my sincere prayers are for you during this very difficult time. May our strong God wrap his loving arms of comfort around each and everyone one of you.

    • reply
      Sharron Renee Paige says

      To the Basnight family, my sincere condolences for you during this difficult time. I will remember Kenny’s smile and laughter. To know Kenny was a true blessing. Kenny knew no strangers. I will be keeping the family lifted in prayer. God bless.

  2. reply
    Greg Lowe says

    To the Bassnight Family ;
    You have my deepest sympathy and unwavering support. Wishing you peace, comfort, courage, and lots of love at this time of sorrow. My heart goes out to you at this difficult time. Wishing you the best and know you have my full support in every moment.

    • reply
      Shawna C Cowell says

      Thank you Daddy for all you’ve done for me!!!
      Amen
      Love Shawna Cowell your oldest……

  3. reply
    Shawnetta Butts says

    Words cannot express my feelings during this time. Although I have my own father, I considered you as my dad as well. Thank you for loving not only my brother and sister (Phillip & Shawna), but for including myself and Lil Mike as well. This still feels surreal to me but I am slowly coming to terms. Love you and you are sorely missed.

  4. reply
    Dr. Michael A. Butts says

    I was shocked to hear of your transition. I met you through a mutual acquaintance, and I can say you were a man of integrity. We had the opportunity to share in ministry, and I was always in awe of your tremendous faith in what God could do, had done, and was going to do. You were a true example of a servant of God. Now you can rest from your labor. You are healed.

  5. reply
    Ann Blackwell & Family says

    Our sincere condolences to Evette Little and the Basnight family as you all face this difficult time. Please know there is love and prayers surrounding you.

  6. reply
    Chamekay Hall says

    Pastor Basnight will be TRULY TRULY missed. I will never forget his teachings, wisdom and love for my family and I. Grace and peace. Love you Pastor

  7. reply
    Sherry Watkins says

    My deep condolences for the passong of thos fine man.
    He has not ever been himself, always after ther good thing and sharing his talents, a little bit of himself with others.
    Blessings family and please know that we all have another warrior praying for our best decisions and protection.
    BLESSED BY GOD WE ARE!❤😇

  8. reply
    Pastor Kelvin Johnson says

    A true friend in ministry a awesome car salesman. You were a blessing to many. Take your rest my friend. I shall see you again in that great getting up morning. Thank you for everything.

  9. reply
    Terry Jefferson says

    I’ll always remember the pearls of Godly wisdom you shared with me concerning giving and it wasn’t just talk you lived it. I’m praying God heals all your hurt Family and all who grieves this loss.
    Rest Easy King 👑

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