Obituary of James Richard Best

James Richard Best

11/15/1956 – 09/04/2020

James Richard Best (Jim), a loving father, son, brother and friend, passed away at home in Tacoma, WA on Friday September 4, 2020.

Jim was born in Tacoma, WA to Carroll and Patricia Best.  He attended Fife High School and was a solid athlete during his time there.  He joined the United States Army in 1976 and ended his military career in the Utah National Guard in 1988.  Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret “Mara” Best, sister Cathy and his father, Carroll.

He is survived by his five beautiful daughters, of whom he was very proud; Kim (Lucas) Byers of Denver, Kelly (Sean) Dougherty of Denver, Kylie Schrader of Las Vegas, Mara Best of Las Vegas, and Mishae (Brandon) Fuselier of Boise as well as his 6 grandchildren;  Kai, Maddox, Dane, Ashtyn, Lauren and Gage who all adored their grandpa.   Jim is also survived by his mother, Patricia Best (Robert) Mower of Spanaway, WA and his siblings Judy, Barbara and Ricky and many nephews and nieces, all of whom loved him very much.

Jim was a bright personality with natural charm and charisma.  He deeply loved those who were part of his heart.  His daughters and grandchildren fondly remember him singing and dancing with them often.  He had an appreciation for beautiful things and took pride in his appearance.  He was also very much a prankster and would take any chance to pull off a good one.

His daughters and family know how hard he loved and how hard he struggled to cope in difficult times. His addiction took over, especially in the last few years of his life, but he was a good man with a golden heart.  His family loves the man he was at the core and will always hold dear and beautiful memories they had with him. 

There was a celebration of life on September 11, 2020 in Tacoma with all his family present. His ashes were spread by his daughters in special places that were important to their dad and hold lots of great memories of good times.

In his memory, please reach out to anyone who is suffering and let them know they are loved.