James Robert William Best, aged 91, of Keene, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully, August 19, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones after a brief period of failing health.

Jim was born on February 16, 1935 to the late Harry G. Best and Judith A. Doyle in Doylesburg, PA. He was a graduate of Fannett Township High School, Shippensburg University, and Temple University where he received his Master’s in Education Administration. He taught history at Paxton Hollow Middle School before advancing to administration. Eventually serving for years as assistant principal and principal in the Marple Newtown School district where he was beloved by his students and colleagues alike.

Jim also proudly served for over 30 years as an officer in the Pennsylvania National Guard retiring in 1987 with the rank of Colonel (O-6).

Throughout his long life, Jim was an active member of civic organizations in every community he resided in. He was a member of Newton Square Rotary Club and later went on to become a member of the Keene Lyons Club after moving to New Hampshire. Even in retirement, his commitment to improving the field of public education continued— he ran for and was ultimately elected to the Keene School Board where he served as a proud member for several terms.

Jim met his beloved wife, Beverly Jean Gallagher of Dry Run, through his friendship with her brother, Alfred. They were married in 1959 in Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church, Doylesburg, PA, and initially settled in Chambersburg before relocating to the Philadelphia area to work in local schools. They welcomed a daughter, Beth Ellen, in 1962, and a son, Michael, in 1966.

He was preceded in death by a son James Jr. in 1960, brothers Harold D. in 2025, Francis W. in 2006, and Gerald J. in 2008, and a sister Elizabeth C. in 1997. He is survived by his wife Beverly, a son Michael, a daughter Beth, his brother Robert, four grandchildren, a great grandchild, and several step-grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He was an avid outdoorsman during his younger years. He enjoyed trout fishing in New Hampshire's rivers with his grandchildren. He loved to garden and walk his dog, Winnie, and he was a diehard Red Sox fan.

Jim’s family is grateful to the Jack Byrne Center for Palliative and Hospice Care in Lebanon, New Hampshire, where Jim’s final days were comfortable and dignified.

Funeral services will be on Thursday, August 27th at 12 Noon with a Mass of Christian Burial in Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church. He will be laid to rest in their cemetery beside his son, James Jr. and his many ancestors. This place of worship was built on land donated by his family in 1816.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church, 21169 Cross Rd, Doylesburg, PA 17219. www.agettlakjer.com