Obituary of Richard B. Best, Sr.

Richard Bowen Best, Sr. passed away July 12, 2023 at the age of 73 due to medical complications and is survived by his beloved wife, June Gay Best; sons, Richard Bowen Best, Jr. (wife Khaoula Dridi Best) and Matthew Doy Best; grandson, Isaac Mael Best; and sister, Irma Best Reaves (husband James Edwin Reaves); and many others who will always love him.

He is preceded by his parents, Isaac Leroy Best and Azile Bowen Best; brother, Charles Leroy Best; and daughter, Anita Best Kerr.

Richard excelled at everything he did as a graduate of Orangeburg High School (1967), as a U.S. Army electronic computer repairman for the Pershing Nuclear Missile System (1972-1975), and as a graduate of the University of South Carolina with two bachelors of Science in Marketing and Real Estate Finance (1977). He started his real estate career as a Realtor in 1969 and started his own brokerage Best Properties in 1979. He was the 2002 Realtor of the Year for the Greater Columbia Association of Realtors and the 2003 President for the same association.

Richard never met a stranger and would have long conversations with anyone whether they were homeless in the park or families and friends seeking advice, consolation, camaraderie, or just his jovial spirit for celebration. He seldomly mentioned his good deeds and was a father figure to many. His exuberance for life was remarkable and expressed in his work, travel, love for food, photography, love for nature, but foremost in quality time with his family and friends. He never made enemies or held grudges but was firm with moral and ethical matters. 

Richard’s memorial service will be at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 16th at Thompson Funeral Home on 4720 Augusta Road, Lexington, SC 29073.

Donations may be made to the charity of your choice.