Basil John Gilger was born on January 14, 1952, to Basil L. Gilger and Audrey Louise Gilger in Cedar City, Utah. He died on June 6, 2026, in his home in Las Vegas, Nevada. He attended school in Cedar City and Parowan, Utah. In 1969, he moved with his family to Tooele, Utah, where he met Debra Gray. They were married on July 31, 1970, and were later sealed in the Oakland Temple in February of 1973. He is survived by his mother, Audrey Gilger; his sisters, Angelique Conger (Jack) and Tina Gilger; his wife, Debra Gray Gilger; and his children, Jason Gilger (Meli), Kate Helton (Austin), and Heidi Johnson (Shane). Eight grandchildren and one great-grandson. Preceded in death by Basil L. Gilger (father), and siblings Darlene Gilger and Andrew Gilger, who died in infancy.

He retired from the United States Navy after 20 years of submarine service. He then continued to work as a technical writer, most recently for Aristocrat Gaming. He was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings, including as an ordinance worker in the Las Vegas Temple.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He often rearranged his schedule to allow time to care for his wife. He was especially proud of all his grandchildren and supported them in their activities.