gravestone dated 1740, though he died in 1741. Sir Francis Sykes, 1st Baronet (1732–1804), British East India Company governor, landowner and politician, lived in Basildon, but died before his mansion was completed. Graham Whitehead (1922–1981), Formula 1 motor racing driver, died in Basildon. References External links Village Website for Upper and Lower Basildon Royal Berkshire History: Basildon Villages in Berkshire West Berkshire District