March 17, 2022, 101, Goldsboro –

Winston Parks Best, 101, passed away Thursday, March 17, 2022, at the North Carolina State Veterans Home in Kinston. Winston was born in Wayne County to the late Claude and Lala Parks Best on February 25, 1921. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Ellis Best; daughter-in-law, Wanda M. Best; son-in-law, David Weaver; grandson, Stephen James Minshew; and brother, Kimber Best.

A love of farming ran deep in Winston’s spirit. Growing up on the family farm in the New Hope Community, he spent many years tending to his tobacco crops with his family. Winston loved his home and spent all of his years on that sacred plot of heaven on earth. In 1970, he was awarded the Wayne County Farmer of the Year Award.

Winston lived a life of dedication to his family and friends, and to his community. He served one term on the Wayne County School Board of Education from 1969 to 1975. Winston was a member of the Wayne County Farm Bureau, the New Hope Grange, and was also a charter member of the New Hope Ruritan Club. For over 70 years, he proudly served the club in many of its community projects. After graduating from the first graduating class of New Hope High School, Winston proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II.

Community and service in the church were a top priority for Winston throughout his life. Winston dedicated his time and attention to the enrichment of the lives as a Sunday School teacher at Beston United Methodist Church. He also held many other positions at the church including Sunday School Superintendent. Family was very important to Winston and for many years he served as the president of the Annual Parks Family Reunion that was held at Hood Swamp Friends Church.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 20, 2022 at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a graveside service at 2:30 p.m. in Wayne Memorial Park with military honors. Pastor Sherman Guthrie will officiate.

Winston is survived by his son, Donald Best of LaGrange; daughter, Margaret B. Weaver of Sneads Ferry; grandson, Brad Weaver and wife, Valerie; and great-grandsons, Tyler Lawrence Weaver and James Winston Weaver. He is also survived by his special friend and companion, Pauline Eason.

The family would like to express their appreciation for the compassionate care provided by the staff of the North Carolina State Veterans Home in Kinston, where Winston lived his final years.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given in his memory to Beston United Methodist Church, 2360 E. New Hope Road, LaGrange, NC 28551

Services are entrusted in the care of Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.