Obituary of Annie Best

Annie “Ann” Best (nee DeBernardo) passed peacefully on September 28, 2023. Ann was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and an adoring grandmother and great-grandmother. She leaves a legacy of love and memories that will forever be cherished.

Born to Concetta and Umberto on June 23, 1933, Ann was the youngest of seven children. In 1951, she and a friend attended a Memorial Day parade in Congers, New York. Neil Best was marching that day, and the rest is history. They married on October 30, 1954. Ann and Neil’s unwavering devotion to each other has been an inspiration and a model for many.

As a mother, Ann instilled in her children the values of love, faith, and compassion. Possibly her greatest title, her role as “Grandma” and “Great-Grandma” brought immense joy to her heart. She delighted in watching her family grow, cherishing time together and reveling in news of daily activities and accomplishments.

Ann had a zest for life that was infectious. She was a social butterfly, always eager to connect with friends and make new ones. She enjoyed entertaining, particularly during the holidays. Her energy and warm laughter lit up every room she entered.

Ann loved to travel, and she and Neil were fortunate to travel extensively in retirement together. New England was a favorite destination, while trips throughout the US, the Caribbean, and to Europe provided many stories and happy memories.

Blessed with good health throughout her life, Ann embraced every moment with a smile. May her spirit continue to shine brightly in our hearts, reminding us to live each day with love and gratitude.

She leaves her husband Neil, her children, and their spouses Neil Jr. (Noreen), Pamela Zeitler (George) and John (Rob), her grandchildren Catherine Best Hillmann (Tim), George Zeitler (Sarah), Elizabeth Best – Bradford (Andrew), Michael, John and Zachary Zeitler, and Honesty Melendez; her great-grandchildren David and Amy Best – Bradford and Owen and Zara Hillmann; a loving extended family, and dear friends.  Her six siblings, Teresa Ancker, Vincent and Joseph DeBernardo, Nancy Trainor, and Emily and Frank DeBernardo passed before her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, at 11:00 am at St. Patrick RC Church, 327 Greenwich St., Belvidere, NJ.  Inurnment to follow at St Patrick Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the good work of St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in her memory.