WILMINGTON — William Herbert Best, Jr., 89, of Wilmington, passed away Sunday, September 27, 2026, after a brief stay at North Chase Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
He was born January 2, 1937 in Wilmington, NC, son of the late William H. Best, Sr. and Mazie Vivian Swain Best. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia King Best; brother, Wilbur Best; and two sisters, Jeanwood Best Bennett and Caroldean Best Bullis.
William is survived by his two sons, Phillip Best and Timothy Best (Lori); two grandchildren, Kelsey Best and Christian Best (Katelynn); two great-grandchildren, Lawson and Wrenley; his brother, Clyde Best (Donna) and sister, Louise Best Ammons (Jimmy).
William was a retired construction and bridge inspector. He was an avid sports enthusiast; coaching softball and well known as an umpire and referee at the Middle Schools and High Schools. He was inducted into the ASA Hall of Fame.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00pm Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Andrews Hampstead Chapel. Prior to the service, at the funeral home, the family will receive friends from 1:00pm until the service hour. Interment will follow, next door, in Sea Lawn Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in William’s name to Peace Baptist Church, 320 Military Cutoff, Wilmington NC, 28405.
