The story of Jerrad “J.B.” Bassett continues to matter because it represents a powerful mix of talent, love, family, and a heartbreaking tragedy that still teaches important lessons today. Born in 1992, Jerrad was a young songwriter and rapper whose music—shared through YouTube and small local performances—reflected his creativity, passion, and desire to express himself. Many people still search for his name because they want to understand the musician behind the songs, learn about his life, or read about the circumstances of his tragic death in 2014. His passing was not the result of reckless behavior but a lack of awareness, as he unknowingly inhaled air duster spray, a household product with deadly risks. This loss deeply affected his family and community and sparked discussions about aerosol inhalation dangers among teenagers and young adults. This article explores every part of his life—his early years, musical journey, family background, personality, tragic death, and the awareness message his story continues to spread.
Profile Summary: Jerrad bassett
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jerrad “J.B.” Clyde Ben Bassett |
| Known As | J.B. Bassett |
| Date of Birth | September 2, 1992 |
| Birthplace | St. Louis, Missouri, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Parents | Mother: Christina Bassett Doyle • Father: Jerald Bassett • Stepfather: Frankie “Dooley” Doyle |
| Siblings | Patrick Gibbons, Chrissy Gibbons, Marina Bassett, Sasha Bassett |
| Occupation | Rapper • Songwriter |
| Famous For | Original rap music uploaded on YouTube |
| Loved Activities | Fishing, gardening, Howard County fairs, church music |
| Cause of Death | Accidental inhalation of air duster spray |
| Date of Death | June 25, 2014 |
| Funeral | Private service held in Godfrey, Illinois |
| Legacy | Music, family memories, and raising awareness about aerosol inhalation dangers |
Who Was Jerrad Bassett?
Jerrad “J.B.” Clyde Ben Bassett, born on September 2, 1992, in St. Louis, Missouri, was a young man known for his creativity, musical talent, and emotional depth. He expressed himself through songwriting and rap, often performing pieces that he later uploaded to YouTube, where friends, family, and strangers were able to hear his voice and appreciate his potential. He was not famous in a commercial sense, but he built a personal following through his passion for music and his ability to turn his emotions into words. Those who knew him personally describe him as warm, humorous, and full of dreams, always eager to connect with others through lyrics or conversations. His identity was shaped by both his artistic side and his strong family ties, making him not just a musician but a beloved son, brother, and friend whose life touched many hearts.
Early Life & Family Background
Jerrad Bassett spent his childhood in St. Louis, growing up with strong support from his family, including his mother Christina Bassett Doyle, father Jerald Bassett, and later his stepfather Frankie “Dooley” Doyle. He shared his life with his siblings: Patrick Gibbons, Chrissy Gibbons, Marina Bassett, and Sasha Bassett. His family was close and deeply connected, forming the emotional foundation of his early years. One of the most memorable parts of his upbringing was spending summers in Howard County, where he enjoyed escaping from city life. Those summers were filled with fishing trips, planting gardens, attending county fairs, and appreciating nature. These experiences shaped his calm, grounded personality. Another major influence was his grandfather, Billy Swaringen, whose church guitar performances deeply inspired Jerrad and exposed him to music as a form of expression, community, and worship.
Musical Journey — J.B. Bassett as a Rapper & Songwriter
Music was more than a hobby for J.B.; it was a form of emotional communication. He began writing his own rap lyrics at a young age, often drawing inspiration from personal struggles, life observations, and his environment. His musical style reflected sincerity—he wrote about real feelings rather than exaggerating or imitating mainstream trends. He recorded and performed rap tracks that he later shared on YouTube, hoping to reach a wider audience. Over time, he built a small community of listeners who appreciated his raw talent and his willingness to be vulnerable in his art. Friends and family frequently praised his dedication, recalling how he would spend hours perfecting lyrics or experimenting with beats. His dream was to develop his music further, build a larger following, and eventually become a professional musician. Even though his life ended early, his creative work continues to live online and remains a reminder of his potential.
Personal Life — Passions, Personality & Community Influence
Beyond music, Jerrad enjoyed simple, meaningful experiences that shaped his personality. He loved nature, especially the quiet escape of Howard County, where he spent summers fishing, tending gardens, and enjoying the local fair. These activities connected him to family, land, and the sense of peace he often lacked in the city. His personality was described as warm and kind, with a great sense of humor that made him easy to love and comfortable to be around. He also attended Faith Family Church and cherished moments watching his grandfather play guitar at church services and nursing homes, bringing joy to elderly residents. These experiences shaped his values and connected him deeply to community life. His gentle nature, creative mind, and deep love for his family made him unforgettable to everyone who knew him.
The Events Leading to His Passing — Understanding the Tragedy
The tragedy that ended Jerrad Bassett’s life occurred because of something many people do not fully understand—the dangers of inhaling air duster spray. In June 2014, Jerrad unknowingly inhaled air duster, a common household aerosol used for cleaning electronics. Many young people are unaware that the chemicals inside can cause immediate and severe medical effects, including heart failure, suffocation, and brain damage. Jerrad became ill shortly after exposure and was hospitalized, but despite medical intervention, he passed away on June 25, 2014. His death devastated his family and shocked the community, leading to conversations about aerosol misuse and accidental inhalation among youth. His mother later clarified that he had not understood the dangers, and his loss became a heartbreaking reminder of how everyday products can present deadly risks when misused—even unintentionally.
Understanding Air Duster & Aerosol Inhalation — A Public Health Warning
Aerosol inhalation, often referred to as “huffing,” is a dangerous practice that many people, especially teens, may experiment with without knowing the real risks. Air duster contains chemicals like difluoroethane, which can interrupt oxygen flow, damage organs, and cause deadly heart arrhythmias. The danger is immediate and severe—just one inhalation can trigger cardiac arrest or suffocation. Many young people mistakenly believe it is harmless because it is sold in stores and used for cleaning. Jerrad’s story highlights the importance of education and awareness. His mother now publicly urges parents to discuss these dangers with their children, hoping his tragedy will prevent others from making the same fatal mistake.
Family Advocacy — Christina Doyle’s Message to Parents

After losing her son, Christina Doyle became an advocate for awareness about aerosol dangers. She has repeatedly urged parents to educate themselves and their children about the hidden risks of products like air dusters. Her message is simple but powerful: young people must understand that everyday household items can become deadly when misused. Christina’s advocacy reflects her desire to turn her grief into something meaningful—preventing other families from experiencing the same heartbreak. Her message has resonated with many people in the community, and Jerrad’s story continues to be shared as an example of why awareness and open communication between parents and children is essential.
Funeral, Memorial & How His Loved Ones Remember Him
Jerrad received a private funeral service in Godfrey, Illinois, surrounded by the people who loved him most. His family and friends remembered him not just for his music, but for his kindness, humor, and gentle presence. Many shared memories of his summers in Howard County, his dedication to songwriting, and the joy he brought to family gatherings. His music remains online, continuing to give listeners a glimpse into his artistic mind and emotional world. Friends celebrate his memory through stories, shared videos, and listening to the tracks he left behind. Though his life was short, the impact he left was meaningful and lasting.
Lessons from Jerrad’s Story — Why Awareness Saves Lives
Jerrad Bassett’s story teaches an important lesson about the hidden dangers of aerosol inhalation. Many tragic cases occur not because young people seek to harm themselves, but because they do not understand how deadly these substances can be. His life serves as a reminder that awareness can save lives, and that conversations about health risks must happen in homes, schools, and communities. Educating teenagers about the dangers of air duster and similar products is essential to preventing more tragedies. Jerrad’s story continues to spread this message, turning heartbreak into a powerful tool for prevention.
Conclusion
Jerrad “J.B.” Bassett lived a short but meaningful life filled with creativity, kindness, and strong family connections. He touched the hearts of many people through his music, personality, and presence. His tragic passing brought awareness to dangers that often go unnoticed, making his story not only a memorial but also a message of prevention. Honoring Jerrad means celebrating his artistic dreams, remembering his joyful spirit, and spreading awareness to protect others. Though he is gone, his legacy continues through the lessons his life teaches and the love his family keeps alive.
FAQs About Jerrad Bassett
1. Who was Jerrad “J.B.” Bassett?
Jerrad “J.B.” Bassett was an American rapper and songwriter from St. Louis, Missouri, known for his original rap music uploaded to YouTube. He was loved by his family and community and spent much of his youth enjoying music, nature, and summers in Howard County.
2. How did Jerrad Bassett die?
Jerrad Bassett died on June 25, 2014, from accidental inhalation of air duster spray. He was unaware of the dangerous chemicals inside the aerosol product, which caused a fatal medical reaction.
3. What was Jerrad Bassett known for?
Jerrad Bassett was known for his rap music, songwriting talent, and the heartfelt lyrics he shared online. His music and personality left a strong impact on family, friends, and listeners.
4. What message did Jerrad Bassett’s family share after his passing?
His mother, Christina Doyle, urged parents to learn about and educate their children on the dangers of inhaling air duster and other aerosol sprays, hoping to prevent similar tragedies.
5. Where was Jerrad Bassett from?
Jerrad Bassett was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and spent meaningful summers in Howard County, where he enjoyed fishing, gardening, and participating in local fairs.
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