Shirley Pearl Best

Shirley Pearl Best

Shirley Best Obituary

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Oct. 7, 2008.
BEST, Shirley Pearl, 55, of Richmond, Va., departed this life on October 4, 2008. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Cooper; and daughter, Nechole Best. She leaves to cherish her memory a loving and devoted husband, Charles F. Best; a daughter, Charneeta Hunter (Franciscus); one granddaughter, Kiara Liggons; her mother, Pearl Cooper; one sister, Sarah Cooper; three brothers, Robert Jr. (Shirley), Jake (Ovetis) and Gordon (Brenda) Cooper; sister-in-law, Antoinette Dickerson; and a host of other relatives and friends. Remains rest at March Funeral Home, 2110 E. Laburnum Avenue, where viewing will be held on Wednesday, October 8, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Funeral service 1 p.m. Thursday, October 9, 2008 at Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 2705 Hartman Road. Rev. Roscoe Cooper III officiating. Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery.


This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

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November 10, 2008

Taura Turnage posted to the memorial.

November 10, 2008

Charneeta Hunter posted to the memorial.

October 11, 2008

Helene Bradshaw posted to the memorial.

Taura Turnage

November 10, 2008

Shirley,
It has been a little over a month now and I still wake up everyday asking myself is this really happening. I never question what God does and I just continue to ask him to give all of us the strength to deal with what has happened. Charneeta has been staying strong and taking care of everyone, Charles, Jr. is taking it one day at a time and trying to be strong for Kiara and Charneeta. And Kiara is doing good and blossoming into herself. I miss you alot and there are moments when I get real down knowing that you are gone but I ask God to help me be strong for my family and show them how much I love them. Love you and miss you alot!!!!

Charneeta Hunter

November 10, 2008

Mom,

It's been a little over a month since you left us, and only by the grace of God are Kiara, Dad and myself making it through. Dad and I both still have our bad days where we just cry because we miss you so much. I so badly wish you were still here with us, but I know that you are in a much better place and no longer suffering.
I'm sure you've told Nechole, Jo-Jo and everyone else there all of the wonder things that took place here before you left. I'm sure you've filled them all in.
For me, I've just promised to take life one day at a time. My birthday is today. I remember in September you asked me what I wanted. I told you there was nothing I needed. Well, if I could take it back, I want and need you. Though I will never understand why you had to go, I will just continue to tell myself that you are in a much better place. Your words were always "God will never take you until it's your time to go".
I don't know if you heard me whispher in your ear the evening of October 4, 2008...but I told you that I loved you and I promised you that I would take care of dad and Kiara.
You may be abscent from the body but you will always be present in our hearts. I love you dearly mom and can't wait until I see you again.

Love your daughter,

Charneeta B. Hunter

Helene Bradshaw

October 11, 2008

To Kiara and the Best Family,
I am so, so sorry to hear of your grandmother's passing. You were always in her thoughts and your grandmother wanted the best for you. I was priviledged to meet your grandmother several times and could see the love she had for you. I know you will miss her dearly. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sincerely, Helene Bradshaw, John Rolfe Middle School.

Molly Hayes

October 10, 2008

Mrs. Best was a devoted and loving grandmother. I had the privilege of teaching her granddaughter, Kiara. Mrs. Best went out of her way to ensure that Kiara got the most from her education. My deepest condolences go out to the Best family at this time.

Maridel Lee, RN

October 9, 2008

To Charneeta,
You and your family have my deepest and most heartfelt sympathy during this difficult time. Keep your memories of your mom close at heart and they will provide comfort. I lost my parents 17 months ago and it will be difficult at times, but it will get better. Please let me know if I can do anything to help ease your pain.

Craig Cotman

October 9, 2008

My prayers and condolences go out to the Best family. Shirley will be truly missed.

Tanika Anderson

October 9, 2008

Im very sorry to hear of your moms passing, I will pray for you and your family everyday. God loves us,so hold on to his never changing hand.

Diane Curry

October 9, 2008

To the Best Family
My thoughts and prayers are with in your time sorry.
Mrs. Best,
I will always keep thoughs memories in my heart, when we talked, laughed, celebrated ,prayed and cried together. Mrs.Best,you will be truly missed but never forgotten.

Jeff & Linda Bancharan

October 9, 2008

Char,
Our hearts and condolences go out to you on the loss of a loved one.Be strong.

Cynthia Wilson

October 9, 2008

To the Best Family

My prayes are with you during this most difficult time. Shirley touched me in many ways. She had a way of saying "Mousey" that always made me smile even on those days when I thought I had nothing to smile about. She will be greatly missed.

October 8, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.Shirley will be missed and will remain in our heart forever.

Reggie, Frank and Doc (MCVH)

Alberta Anderson

October 8, 2008

Charneeta
I know that you are hurting but you know that God comes to pick his best from the garden when he needs to add more beauty to heaven and his blossom Shirley was the brightest of them all on the day she departed for heaven remember we love our love ones but God loves them more, he will heal you and your family because all of you are his blossoms to.
Love you
Miss Alberta(MCV Children's Pavilion)

Sandra Butts

October 8, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. My prayers and thoughts are with you. May you find comfort and peace in your time of bereavment. I will miss Shirley so much.

Jacqueline Glover

October 8, 2008

With Sympathy from your Buckingham County VA family (The Glovers) Marvin, Doris, Charlotte, Jackie, Marvinette & Gavin

Arnold Jones

October 8, 2008

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Nell Lewis

October 8, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.Shirley will be missed and will remain in my heart forever.The Lewis Family.

Joyce King Smith

October 8, 2008

Charles and Charnita,

Peace be with you and your family. I know that it's not going to be easy because Shirley was truly one of God's Originals. She will definitely be missed by me and so many others. She was loved by some many people. She was my stick partner at work (MCV) and a great inspiration to me. We use to have a ball together and that's how I'll always remember her. She always held a very special place in my heart. I will truly miss her. Always remember that you are never alone, God is with you and so is She. I can see her regulating things in Glory now, because that's our Shirley. (smile)........Be Blessed

Granville Cash

October 8, 2008

I am so sorry to hear of Shirley's passing. She will be missed by all of us here at the Comm Center, VCUHS.

Gail & Michael Hairston

October 8, 2008

To The Best Family;
Our prayers are with you during this time. Shirley was a dear and thoughtful person and friend. She will be truly missed. We have all the wonderful memories to share with each other from childhood and into becoming adults and coworkers. May God continue to bless you and he will give you the strength to go on.

Vicki Morris (VCU Health System)

October 8, 2008

My prayers goes out to the Best Family during this times. I know what it feels like to lose a love one, but time will ease your pain. Shirley
will be greatly missed.

Terri Atkins Wilson

October 8, 2008

To The Best Family:
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss. I always enjoyed working with Shirley while renting and trying to sell the home on Route 45 in Cumberland. I know that she will be really missed. Take care and may God bless each of you.
Terri Atkins Wilson, Farmville, Virginia
434-392-6181

Jennifer Hamner

October 8, 2008

We would like to send our deepest sympathy to you and your family. We were blessed to know Mrs. Best and she will never be forgotten. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. She will be greatly missed.
Stony Point Hem/onc nurses

Cheryl Ross

October 8, 2008

To the Best Family:
There are no words that will ease your pain but know she's in a better place. My deepest condolences to your family. I will keep you in my prayers. May God bless.

Pathology/LIS
VCUHS

October 8, 2008

TO THE BEST FAMILY,

MY HEART WAS SADDENED WHEN I HEARD OF SHIRLEY'S PASSING. SHIRLEY WAS A REMARKABLE PERSON, ALWAYS SMILING AND EAGAR TO HELP ME. I AM TRUELY GOING TO MISS HER. MY PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU ALL. I HAVE KNOWN SHIRLEY FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS AT MCV. GOD HAS PICKED A BEAUTIFUL LADY FOR HIS GARDEN. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOUR FAMILY.

WANDA SIMMONS (MCV HOSPITAL)

Stella Miller

October 8, 2008

The day the angels took your Mother to live with them above-the world we live in down below lost someone truly loved. My deepest sympathy and prayers are with you and family. God Bless

Nellie Blanton

October 7, 2008

To the Best Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Shirley will be truly missed, but will always remain in our hearts.

Cousin Nellie Blanton & Family (Farmville, VA)

Dorothy Garrett

October 7, 2008

Dear Sweet Charneeta,
My heart was so sadden when I heard about your mom, you and your family have my heartfelt sympathy,let the beautiful memories of her comfort you, she will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Carolyn Johnson

October 7, 2008

Charneeta,
My heart goes out to you and your entire family. Let the loving memories of your mom fill your heart and know that God is in control. He will give you peace in your time of sorrow. Know that we will keep you lifted up in prayer.

Deborah Alexander

October 7, 2008

To the Best family, I offer you my sympathy and heartfelt condolences. I worked with Shirley for many years, she was a strong woman with the softest heart... I will miss her.

May tender memories soften your grief, may fond recollection bring you relief, and may you find comfort and peace in the thought, of the joys that knowing Shirley has brought.

For time and space can never divide, or keep her ever from your side, when memory paints in colors true, the happy hours that belonged to you.

MICHELLE JONES

October 7, 2008

TO CHARNEETA: MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

Shonda Taylor

October 7, 2008

There really are no words to say at a time like this, but Know that my prayers and thoughts are with you all. "And GOD shall wipe away all tears from their eyes;and there shall be no more death,neither sorrow,nor crying,neither shall there be any more pain:for the former things are passed away. Rev.21:3-5

Shirley Peters McCray

October 7, 2008

To Charles and Family,
You have my heartfelt sympathy during this most difficult time. The road won't be easy, but God is on your side.

Jennifer Hasty

October 7, 2008

Dearest Charneeta,

This is such a difficult time. I have lost both my parents - one to illness, and one suddenly. My heart goes out to you. It does get easier with time, but you will always miss her. I am so very sorry that you and your family have to go through this.

God is always good, and although so hard to understand, He has an ultimate plan we'll find out about later.

Blessings to you and your memories of your mom.

Love in Christ,
Jennifer

Douglas & Valorie McBee

October 7, 2008

To the family of Shirley Best, may God be with you in this time of sorrow. If there is anything that we can do to help ease your pain, please let us know. Shirley will certainly be missed.

Your Neighbor,
Douglas and Valorie McBee & Family

Faye Richardson

October 7, 2008

Sarah, I'm so sorry for your loss, Shirley was a wondeful person and my gateway to keepup with you. So, this mean we need to keep in touch. I know how you feel I loss my brother in August. You don't forget the pain, it just eases up overtime. My condolence to your family. Your Friend Faye Richardson

Karen Heath - MCV Family

October 7, 2008

Charneeta

My prayers are with you and your family.

Karen Jackson Lowery

October 7, 2008

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

Tammy Dunn

October 7, 2008

Charneeta and Family,

There are no words I can offer that will ease your pain, but please know you are in so many thoughts and prayers.

Katrina Booker(Hatcher)

October 7, 2008

Mr. Best & Charneeta,
Your mom was a very special lady and will be missed by everyone who had the opportunity to get to know her. She always made me and my family feel right at home anytime we came over for an event. I would always look for her on her porch when I was picking up my kids. She may be gone, but not forgotton. If there is anything my family can do, please don't hesitate to call and know that God can and will see you through. We love you.

Harvey Anderson

October 7, 2008

Charles,
We grew up together having fun and laughs as kids do. Never did we ever expected to have such pain and hurt that I share with you and your family today with your loss of Shirley. But this is a part of life's experience that we must endure and absorb because this is what the Lord has decided.
Our sincere condolenses to all the family.

Your Older "Brother" Randy and wife Esther

Mary & Richard Hatcher

October 7, 2008

My Neighbor, My Friend,
I'm going to miss you so much. We
were always looking out for each other and sharing home ideas. You was truely one of a kind. I'll really miss from hearing you say "hey, how you doing?" You maybe absent from the body but you're present with the Lord.

LaTasha Aikens

October 7, 2008

Charneeta and Family

My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this time of bereavement. I know right now it is hard to comprehend but GOD has a master plan for everything. Even though we do not understand right now, everything GOD does He does it well and it will get better in due time. I will be praying for you to have strength during this time. Just remember God will not put more on you than we can bear.

Gail Harris

October 7, 2008

To the Best Family:
I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to your family. The pain will decrease with time.
Gail Harris
VCUHS Payroll Dept.

James/Gertrude Trent

October 7, 2008

To Mr. Charles Best, Charneeta & the Family... we are so sorry to hear of your loss, however just remember that Sister Shirley is now gone home to be her Father Almighty God.
She has served her purpose here on Earth, now she is at peace and rest.
Our deepest sympathy are with you and our prayers are that your family will love each other and allow Jesus
the Christ to comfort you.

Love & Peace
Mr. & Mrs. James Trent

Rachael Osborne

October 7, 2008

Charneeta
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May God give you his perfect peace and comfort during this most difficult time.

Peds Hem/Onc

James Price & Family

October 7, 2008

To Charles & Family: You all are in our prayers & thoughts in your time of loss. God eases all pain and sorrow. He will turn your midnights into days and dry all of your tears away.

Dannetta White (Hatcher)

October 7, 2008

Mr. Best & Charneeta please know that our prayers are with you as you go through this great loss to your family. I know it's hard but just know that GOD will NEVER leave you or forsake you during this time. Continue to lean and depend on him and know that she doesn't have to suffer anymore. That alone should give you a little peace. We love you and are here for you. Not just this week but in the days to come....

Katrina "Bunny" Jackson & Sharon "Nannie" Bryant

October 7, 2008

Charles, Charneeta and Kiara:
Wishing you hope in the midst of sorrow and
comfort in the midst of pain.

The time had come for her to leave,
She did not want to go
But God had other plans for her,
he said, "I need you so."
So she has left this world of ours
and I know you are very sad
But think of all your happy memories
And the great times that you all had.

It will be the little things you remember, the quiet moments, the smiles, the laughter and the phone calls you shared. And although it may seem hard right now, it will be the memories of these little things that help push away the pain and bring the smiles back again.

Charneeta,
What you have lost…Heaven has gained… a perfect angel. Smile, you know she is being entertained by Nechole, Jo-Jo & Don.
Love you Cousin!

Janie Booker

October 7, 2008

To The Best Family,

Shirley and I have been friends since grade school. She moved to Richmond during her high school years but we always keep in touch. Whenever she came up to the country I was always happy to see her.She loved visiting her home church (Petersville Baptist Chuch). Shirley was a beautiful person and she always looked good.She had a kind spirit, and was a great woman of God who love her family and friends.

Shirley will be greatly missed by all. We all love her but God love her best and she is now resting with Jesus.

Erica Tyler

October 7, 2008

Shirley,
It seems like a dream, but I know that you are in a better place. I will miss all of your lectures, jokes, & stories. My prayers and condolences are with the Best, Cooper & MCVH family.

roslyn pleasants(branch)

October 7, 2008

sorry for your loss.shirley will be miss

JEAN BOYD

October 7, 2008

Ms. Best was a pleasure to meet my thoughts and prayers are with the family. I will miss seeing her every week.

Jean(Virginia Credit Union-Hanover)

Curtis Walker

October 7, 2008

Charneeta,
We pray that the Holy Spirit will comfort you and your family at this time. God called your mother home and opened his arms to her.

Rest assured that she is in heaven smiling.

Blessing on you!

Curtis Walker and Family

VANESSA BLACK

October 7, 2008

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.

Audrey Ross

October 7, 2008

Charneeta and Kiara

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.

Jamal Boles

October 7, 2008

Miss Shirley,

You always had something funny to say when I talked to you. You helped me tremendously when I was just learning my job. You would crack on me sometimes and I would laugh right along with you. I am going to miss talking to you! I know you are not suffering and are sitting right next to the King of Kings. Charneeta, and Mister Best, I give you my condolences.

Jamal Kereem Boles IS Dept VCUH/MCVH

Felicia Vann

October 7, 2008

To the Best Family,
I would like to wish you comfort and peace and extend my deepest and heartfelt sympathy to all of you in your time of need.

Felicia Vann

Jonice Lawson

October 7, 2008

She will live on in the hearts of everyone who loved her. I'm sorry for your loss,may God bless you and your family.

Carla Crossin,RN

October 7, 2008

Charneeta,
My heart goes out to you during this time of great loss in your life.I know how heavy your heart must feel at this time because I lost my mother also when she was only 54yrs. old. Please know that GOD will see you through and I am hear for you if you need anything. Just to talk to somebody who understands how you feel can help alot. GOD be with you and your family at this time.
KEEP THE FAITH! Your VCUHS family is praying for you.

Barbara J. Woodson-Neal

October 7, 2008

We shared our hopes and dreams. We laughed, cried and shared our pain. Shirley was a true lady. She was strong and determine to always make her dreams come true. Shirley was my best friend. We grew apart but she was always in my heart. I will never forget you.
Love, Barbara J. Woodson-Neal

Flo Banks

October 7, 2008

I will miss hearing her friendly voice,and sharing her stories about her grand daughter when I call 'The Help Desk'. My Prayers go out to her family.

Carolyn Sarver

October 7, 2008

Shirley will be missed by many. She was such a sweet person and always ready to help.
Carolyn Sarver

DENISE WILLOUGHBY

October 7, 2008

MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU IN YOUR TIME OF SORROW. EARTH HAS NO SORROW, THAT HEAVEN CAN NOT HEAL. GOD BLESS,

Charneeta Hunter

October 7, 2008

Mom,

My heart and soul are hurting, and I am sitting here wondering how I will make it without you. I already know this journey will not be easy without you. You told me this day would come and you also told me that I will be just fine. Although it doesn't feel like it right now, I know I will.

While you're in heaven know that you don't have to worry about my dad or Kiara. I will take care of the both of them. You've taught me well!

I know that you are now in a better place, no longer suffering and with my sister again...keeping her company. You two have so much to catch up on!

I love you so much and will think about you and speak to you through prayer every day.

Also, I have decided to take life one day at a time....just like you said. Aren't you proud of me?

I miss and love you very much!!!

Charneeta Best Hunter

DORRENT TIMMONS

October 7, 2008

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

IREATHA BARBER

October 7, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Mary Beth Friend-Gist

October 7, 2008

Charneeta, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
-Mary Beth Friend-Gist (VCU)

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November 10, 2008

Taura Turnage posted to the memorial.

November 10, 2008

Charneeta Hunter posted to the memorial.

October 11, 2008

Helene Bradshaw posted to the memorial.