Lamar Best

Terrell Lamar Best, age 95, went home to the Lord on Wednesday, September 1, after a brief illness. Best was born in Montgomery on September 21, 1925, was a lifelong resident of the city, and was just three weeks shy of his 96th birthday. He was a 1943 graduate of Sidney Lanier High School, and attended the University of Alabama, for which he loyally cheered.

As an active Christian and member of Capitol Heights Baptist Church, he served there as a deacon, Sunday School for 70 years, and in numerous other capacities.

Best was a Coast Guard veteran of World War 2, joining the service at age 17, and having served at various places in the Pacific, including Iwo Jima and Japan. He spent his career in Montgomery with Service Engraving, which was later part of the Montgomery Advertiser, from which he retired.

Mr. Best is survived by his two daughters, Linda Best Dylewicz (Brian), and Paula Best Kelly (Calvin). He had four granddaughters: Holly Willett, Hillary Kelly White (Wade), Alissa Kelly Thornell (Joey), April Dylewicz, and six great-grandchildren, Eden, Ivy, Aaron, Corbin, Declan, and Brycen. He was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Ruedene Kirkland Best, and his parents, Terrell Jett and Louise Best.

The family wishes to express special thanks to his care givers of the last four months: Peggy Norrell, Linda Daniels, Shaundra Scott, Michelle McCall, and Nita McCall. These five ladies have become loved and cherished family members.

Funeral services will be held at Leak Memory Chapel on Sunday, September 5, at 2:00 pm, with visitation for family and friends beginning at 1:00 pm. Rev. Warren Culver, retired pastor of Capitol Heights Baptist Church, and Rev. Russell Zwerner, current pastor of the church, will officiate. Services will conclude with a burial at Oakwood Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Leak-MC.com for the Best family.