Fern A. Best (née Fern Agnes Holland), 92 years old, passed away unexpectedly at her home (independent living at Brookdale Wornall) on November 19th, 2025. Fern was born on September 29th, 1933 in St. Louis County, Missouri and graduated from Kirkwood High School in 1950. She retired from the USDA in her early 60's.
Fern loved gardening and visiting gardens. She loved her indoor plants as well and left an apartment full of them. She loved art, books and walks in the woods. She loved creatures of all kinds - her favorites were cardinals and butterflies. She had countless dogs and cats throughout her life and appreciated visits from her granddog, Sierra. Through her early 70's, she enjoyed going to dances, and up until her death looked forward to regular luncheon dates with close friends. But above all, she loved her time spent with family; especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Fern was preceded in death by her father, Ernest Holland (when she was 3 years old), her mother, Theresa Holland, and her only sibling, Mary Jean Holland. She is survived by three daughters; Sherry Maher (Vince Sanders), Heather O'Malley (Terence O'Malley), and Melissa Howard (Victor Howard), two grandchildren; Casey O'Malley and Conor O'Malley (Jade Looper), two great grandchildren; Lance O'Malley and Skye O'Malley, and her cat, Pippa.
Fern leaves a legacy of kindness and compassion that will endure in the hearts of her family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated in memory of Fern to Kansas City PBS, or your favorite animal charity.
