Anthony "Tony" Best, 73, passed away on April 14, 2026, in Ocean Springs, MS, just one day shy of his 74th birthday. He was born on April 15, 1952, in Harrodsburg, KY.

Tony dedicated his life to a long and honorable career in law enforcement and security. He began his career with the FBI as a fingerprint clerk in Maryland. He later joined the Pascagoula Police Department in 1970, where he served for 5 years.

He continued his service with Mississippi Alcoholic Beverage Control before becoming the Director of Safety and Security for Singing River Health System. He later held the same role with Mobile Infirmary Health.

After returning to Jackson County, Tony worked with Nicky Maxwell and Mississippi Security Police for 17 years. During this time, he became a licensed police chaplain. He also served with the Gautier Police Reserves as both Commander and Chaplain. He retired in 2015 due to physical health challenges.

Tony was preceded in death by his father, Robert M. Best, and his mother, Rosalyn "Rose" Best Waltmyer.

Tony was married to Kathy (Bradley) Best, the love of his life for 26 years. Together, they traveled all across the United States, creating a lifetime of memories side by side.

Tony dedicated his life to Jesus Christ in 1999 at Cedar Lake Church. He and Kathy faithfully attended for 20 years, building a strong foundation of faith that guided his life. Tony and Kathy began a Celebrate Recovery chapter in 2007, serving faithfully in that ministry for five years.

He is survived by his children: Tony Knight (Jennifer), Angela Best Childers (Staphan), Anthony Lee Best II, Jessica Elizabeth Best (Jim), and Jacob Robert "Jake" Best (Angele). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Lauren E. Knight (Taylor), Mary Katherine Knight, Rylie Grace Knight, Sierra Childers Dees, Alaynna M. Childers, Mollie Harper Best, Rylie Elizabeth Jenkins, Emilie Grace Jenkins, and Aubrey Claire Jenkins; as well as his great-grandchildren, Oliver Riley Dees and Cameron Lee Pitts.

Tony deeply admired his uncle, Leo Adkinson, whose career as a highway patrolman served as a strong example and inspiration in his life.

Honorary pallbearers are Tony Knight, Lee Best, Jake Best, Nicky Maxwell, Glenn Rivers, Roger Johnson, Staphan Childers, and Rick John.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 27, 2026, at Collective Church, located at 4007 Pascagoula Street. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., with the service to follow at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Serene Gardens Cemetery.

Tony will be remembered for his dedication to protecting others, his strong work ethic, and his commitment to the communities he served. His faith in Jesus Christ was a cornerstone of his life and a lasting legacy to all who knew him.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7