James Marvin Best Sr. | Eastern NC Now

    Mr. James Marvin Best Sr., age 84, a resident of Pinetown, North Carolina, passed away Sunday, June 21, 2026, at his home.

    The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 5, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Paul Funeral Home & Crematory in Washington, North Carolina.

    Mr. Best was born in Beaufort County on October 7, 1941, the son of the late Wyriott Aubrey Best and Viola Everette Best. He was a graduate of Pantego High School. He was also involved with the Pinetown Fire Department.

    On July 8, 1961, he married the former Carol Jean Waters, who preceded him in death on July 25, 2025. Together, they shared 64 years of marriage.

    Mr. Best worked as a maintenance supervisor at Weyerhaeuser in Plymouth, North Carolina, until his retirement. After retiring, he enjoyed having more time to dedicate to his garden. He also enjoyed fishing and was truly a jack-of-all-trades. He was a faithful member of the Pinetown Church of Christ, where he served on the deacon board and sang in a quartet.

    Mr. Best is survived by his children, Angela B. Reid and husband, Jeffrey, of Moravian Falls, North Carolina; Kimberly B. Armstrong and husband, Kevin, of Ponzer, North Carolina; and James Marvin "Jamie" Best Jr. and wife, Mia, of Bath, North Carolina; his brother, Carney Best and wife, Peggy; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

    He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jeffrey Marvin Reid Jr., Bryant Scott Reid, Henna McKenzie Reid, K.J. Armstrong and wife, Kasey, Kristopher Armstrong and wife, Josie, Maya Ashlyn Best and husband, Atia Shanseldin, Jameson Aubrey Best, Fredrick Taylor III, Jules S. Moore, John Asher Best, and Jase Axel Best; and his great-grandchildren, Talynn Russell, Konner Russell, Sadie Reid, Haven Elizabeth Armstrong, Holden Craig Armstrong, and Kinsley Rae Armstrong.

    In addition to his parents and his beloved wife, Mr. Best was preceded in death by his brother, Maxwell Dale Best.

    In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be made to:

    Pinetown Fire Department

    7263 North Boyd Road

    Pinetown, NC 27865

    Online condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.paulfuneralhome.com.

    Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Best family.