Ross Birdsal Best Jr.'s Obituary
Ross Birdsal Best, Jr. went into eternal rest on June 28, 2025, at his home in Folsom, Louisiana, surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and family. He was born to Ross Birdsal Best, Sr. and Lois Mae Moran on October 22, 1954, in St. Joseph, Missouri.
He is survived by his children, Emily Best Schmolke (Jared) and Katy Best Hosford. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Andrew N. and Tristan R. McLain, Tanner A. Zerr, Taylor L., Riley N. and Lorelei R. Schmolke, along with many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his beautiful and devoted wife, Laura Galloway Best, his son, Jeremy M. Brown, his son-in-law, Delray Hosford, his parents, grandparents and many other family members.
Ross joined the United States Navy at the very young age of 17 and was honorably discharged as a Navy Veteran after proudly serving his country for many years. After his discharge, Ross found himself on a new journey, chartering a new course to Louisiana, where he settled down and had his first and only son, Jeremy Michael. Ross found his sea very choppy for a time until he met the love of his life, Laura. They married on June 1, 1980, and began a new charter together. They had their first daughter, Emily Nicole and then years later welcomed their dinghy and youngest daughter, Katy Amanda.
Among the trials and tribulations, Ross remained the anchor for his family. He worked for many years as a lineman and proudly retired from Cleco as a project coordinator after 22 years of dedication. He enjoyed fishing, singing, playing the guitar, spending time outdoors, and listening to the musical sounds of slot machines. His later years carried many challenges, but he found joy in the simple things, always offering a helping hand and a kind word of wisdom. He was known for his infectious laughter and generous spirit. Ross’s legacy of undying love, integrity, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Ross decided that the winds in his sails were no more.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the memorial service on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 2:00 PM at E. J. Fielding Funeral Home, 2260 West 21st Avenue, Covington, Louisiana, with visitation beginning at 12:00 PM. Interment will follow in the adjacent Pinecrest Memorial Gardens.
E. J. Fielding Funeral Home of Covington, Louisiana, is honored to be entrusted with Mr. Best’s funeral arrangements. His family invites you to share thoughts, memories, and condolences by signing an online guestbook at https://www.ejfieldingfh.com.
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