Raymond Bernard James Best

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts our family announces the sudden passing of Raymond Bernard James Best, a devoted father, grandfather, brother, son and friend, on February 13th, 2025 at the age of 65 years.

Raymond leaves to cherish his memory, Kathy Preston life-long friend and mother of his 3-children, his two sons Keith Preston and Garrett Preston and his daughter Candace Preston all of Portage la Prairie; Grandsons, Link & Dante of Gladstone MB and Nolan, Brendon and Granddaughter Breanna of Winnipeg MB, his brother Bruce Best (Shirley) of Thompson, his sisters Debbie Best of Thompson MB, Bride Meehan, Florence Colbourne (Wallace), Pauline Love (Darryl) all of Brandon MB, Joan Willett (Richard) of Portage la Prairie and a great many of Nieces, Nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Raymond was predeceased by his mother, Winnie Best (2019), his sister Judy Burn (2015), his uncle Bernard Best (2013) and his father, James Best (1981).

Raymond was born to Winnie (Ellsworth) Best and James Best on November 21st, 1959 in Roddickton, Newfoundland. Resided in Deer Lake and at the age of 12 his family moved to Goose Bay, Labrador. Then, onto Toronto, ON for a short stint; then, settled in Thompson MB. Raymond worked for Gardewine in Thompson for many years. He then hired on with Natural Resources as a carpenter. He eventually moved south to Portage La Prairie with his family and continued to work for Natural Resources. As a self-taught carpenter he did excellent work. He was very detailed and particular about the work he did and was very meticulous about every job he took on. Raymond never knew the value of his own worth.

Raymond loved to laugh and tell jokes. All who knew him loved him. He was a straight shooter; said what he believed to be true. He was selfless, thoughtful, giving, kind hearted and would do anything for anyone. He was a great lover of animals, all kinds, especially his cat named Ninja. Could always hear Raymond saying, “she is a good cat, living her best life”. He loved music; mostly the oldies as he listened to them every day on cassette tapes. He was a great cook and baker and took great pride in doing it for his family.

Raymond’s memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and his love for his family. His passion for life and his willingness to help others will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

A private visitation for family will take place at Ronald Moffit Memorial Services, 306 Saskatchewan Ave. E. Portage la Prairie, MB.

A private gathering for the family, to say farewell, will take place in the spring/summer 2025.

Ronald Moffit Memorial Services of Portage la Prairie, MB in care of arrangements. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Raymond Bernard James Best, please visit our floral store.