Obituary of Rachel Thompson Best

Rachel Thompson Best, 89, of Efland, passed away on Friday, July 28, 2023 at her residence, surrounded by her loving family. Rachel was preceded in death by her parents Raymond and Jessie Thompson, her siblings Helen Warren and George William Thompson, her children Charles “Michael” Best, Betsy Ann Best, and Carlton “Bo” Best, and the father of her children Charles Mercer Best. 

Rachel is survived by her daughter Sarah Best Gibson, son-in-law Frank Gibson, grandson Tyler Gibson and wife Katie Stasser, granddaughter Lindsey Gibson and husband Matthew Parks, and great-grandson Jackson Parks. The family would like to express our sincere appreciation to Sarah Teer Holt for her love and support.

She was a member of Bethlehem Presbyterian Church. Rachel was a long-time member of the 4H community, where she was a 4H leader for many years. Not only was Rachel a mother and grandmother, but a talented artist, art teacher, dedicated friend, accomplished cook, and passionate gardener. Rachel attended Chapel Hill High School and High Point College. She passed down a love of nature and art to many people during her lifespan.

A Celebration of Life service for Rachel Thompson Best will be held on Sunday, August 6, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Bethlehem Presbyterian Church. The address is 3624 Saxapahaw-Bethlehem Church Road, Mebane, North Carolina, 27302. The family requests that guests wear bright, floral, or happiness invoking attire, to reflect Rachel’s joy for life. Visitation and a dessert social will be held in the fellowship hall following the service.

Donations may be made to Bethlehem Presbyterian Church. 

Walker's Funeral Home of Mebane is assisting the family.