Denise Elaine Best

Denise Elaine (Morse) Best passed away on August 14, 2025, in her home in Cleveland, TN. Survived by her loving husband, David Earl Best; brother, Harvey (Ruth) Morse; children Paul Best (Kendra), Aron Brew, and Eric Brew; four grandchildren; as well as cousin Norma (Shekell) Maslyn and several other cousins on the Morse side. Predeceased by her parents Harold Andrew Morse and Cynthia Olivia (Shekell) Morse; and brothers Harold Morse, Jr and Thomas Morse.

Denise grew up in Bergen, NY. Being the youngest and only girl in her family, she endured numerous pranks from her big brothers but embraced it with a fun-loving attitude. She was a 1970 graduate of Byron-Bergen Central School District, and thereafter worked in the factory, retail and mortgage industries. David and Denise married in 1977, building a beautiful life together as they raised their family. In 2008, they moved to TN and quickly settled into southern living.

Denise loved people and saw the best in everyone. Her servant-heart touched countless lives. She poured her love into her family and was generously involved in her church. Denise’s good-natured and easygoing personality made her a joy to be around, brightening every room she entered.

In her spare time, Denise loved to serve others, read her Bible, listen to music, sing in the choir, bake (her Christmas cookies were delicious!), play golf with her husband, bowl, shop (for bargains and new gadgets!), and was fond of gems and jewelry.

Above all, Denise loved the Lord with great passion. She faithfully trusted in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She could often be found with a cup of coffee in her home or on her porch, joyfully reading the Bible. Denise will be surely missed, but her loving, faithful, and servant-heart will forever be cherished as we hold the memory of this beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

As Denise once wrote: “Death takes the body. God takes the soul. Our minds hold the memories. Our heart keeps the love. Our faith lets us know we will meet again.”