Vincent Best

Vincent Best was born on December 17, 1968, in Boston, Massachusetts, lived a vibrant and multifaceted life that touched many throughout the city and beyond.

A proud graduate of Concord-Carlisle High School and Northeastern University, Vincent valued education and service. He dedicated over twenty years to the City of Cambridge Public Works Department as a Compliance Officer, where he was respected for his integrity, attention to detail, and commitment to fairness and accountability.

Vincent was also a longtime manager and DJ at Chez Vous Roller-skating Rink, a place that reflected his love for music, movement, and community. Whether ensuring smooth daily operations or energizing the crowd from the DJ booth, he took great pride in creating a welcoming and joyful environment for all.

Beyond his professional life, Vincent was a man of many talents and passions. An entertainer at heart and a mentor to many, he brought joy wherever he went. As a pantomime performer, he delighted audiences with his expressive energy. A skilled roller skater, saxophonist, and former varsity lacrosse player, Vincent embraced both the arts and athletics with enthusiasm and grace.

He found peace in nature while working as a park ranger at Franklin Park and loved the freedom of the open road on his motorcycle. Vincent enjoyed traveling, photography, fishing, and playing cards with friends, but above all, he cherished time spent with family.

Those who knew Vincent remember him as charming, humorous, intelligent, and deeply caring. He had a natural ability to connect with people from all walks of life and was often a source of guidance, encouragement, and laughter.

Vincent is lovingly remembered by his mother, Valerie Best; his stepfather, Jonathan Best II; his siblings, Jonathan Best III, Ashante Best, Katondra Murphy, Cheryl Brown, Valerie Moss, Taj Washington-Murphy, and Francio Freeman; and many extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

He is survived by his children, Desirae Best, Brittany Ayler, Kyle Best, and Jazire Smith-Best; his stepchildren, Kaneisha Jiles and John Martinez; as well as his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. His legacy lives on through them and through the countless memories he created with love and intention.

May the memory of Vincent Best bring comfort to all who knew him and serve as a lasting reminder of a life lived fully filled with laughter, connection, purpose, and heart