Kelly Dawn Best

 Kelly Dawn Best, 60 of Knox, passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family on Friday, April 24, 2026. Born in Oil City on February 13, 1966, beloved daughter to Kenneth L. and Melanie R. Best. Loving sister to Jodi and Matthew Boocks and Michael and Dionne Best. Beloved aunt to Chelsea Boocks, Kayla Sistilli (Jeff), Morgan Boocks (Travis), Brianna Best (Cory), and Nick Best and great aunt to Mason, Wyatt, and Oliver. Niece to Ron and Rosie Best and Delores and Roger Ritts, and a beloved cousin and friend to many.  Also survived by a very special friend, Cody Carlson.  She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Jane Best Stewart and Harvey Best, and her maternal grandparents, Martha and Melvin Garmong, Uncle Jon Garmong, Aunt and Uncle Diane and Paul Burke, and Cousin Jeffrey Burke.

     From birth, Kelly was faced with many challenges, but there was not one that she didn’t meet head on or face without fear – and she exceeded all expectations.  Kelly loved life and had a passion for coloring, arts and crafts, playing the drums, food, watching movies, and singing along to her favorite music.  Kelly had an innate ability to light up a room and was known for her wonderful hugs. She was a Special Olympian with over 70 medals in Swimming, Golf, Bocci, and Bowling. Included in those medals was a gold medal in swimming at the Pennsylvania State Special Olympics.  She also had a cameo role in the Disney Movie “The Loretta Claiborne Story”, accepting her gold medal on the podium.  Most importantly, she loved worshipping the Lord every Sunday and praising him – especially when she was able to sing on the praise team. She loved to work, having been a devoted employee at Goodwill, Ship ‘N Bill, Venango Training and Development and Clarion Vocational Services, working on the cleaning crew in the deli and office.  She travelled the world with her parents, visiting Germany, Hawaii, and many other places.  She was a devoted daughter, a loving sister and fun-loving aunt. 

     The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at VNA Extended Care, the VNA Hospice and Easter Seals.  Their care and love for Kelly is greatly appreciated. 

     Friends will be received on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 2-8 p.m. and on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 10-11am at Knox United Methodist Church, 9729 PA-338, Knox, PA. 

     Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026, in the church.  Private interment will follow the funeral services.

     In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Kelly’s name to VNA Extended Care Service, 405 Main Street, Shippenville, Pa 16254, Clarion Forest VNA Hospice, 271 Perkins Road, Clarion, PA  16214, or Knox Ambulance Co, P.O. Box 636, Knox, PA 16232.

     Arrangements are under the direction of Kelly’s brother, Michael Best, FD and William N. Rupert Mortuary, Inc. of Knox.

   Online condolences may be sent to Kelly’s family at www.rupertfuneralhomes.com

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