Lenoir County Commissioner Roland Best remembered for a lifetime of service and compassion
Lenoir County Commissioner Roland Best Jr., a longtime public servant and respected community leader, died Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025. He was 74.
Best represented District 05 on the Lenoir County Board of Commissioners from 2013 to 2025, bringing decades of experience in law enforcement and public service to the role. Known for his approachability and steady leadership, Best was widely regarded as a commissioner who listened closely to residents and worked tirelessly on their behalf.
Commissioner June Cummings said Best’s commitment to the community, particularly to law enforcement, was evident throughout his service.
“Commissioner Best will be greatly missed,” Cummings said. “He was very knowledgeable of the needs of law enforcement and was an advocate for them at every opportunity. I will always remember his kindness, compassion, and commitment to Lenoir County citizens. During this season, I remember how much he enjoyed participating in Christmas parades, and his smile and laughter would brighten the day.”
Dr. Preston L. Harris, who served alongside Best on the county board, recalled meeting him decades earlier when Best was preparing for a career in law enforcement.
“He always had a genuine love and concern for our community,” Harris said. “He always wanted to be a public servant. He achieved that goal and served in law enforcement for many years before being elected as a county commissioner. He was approachable and treated everyone with dignity and respect.”
Harris said Best remained dedicated to public service throughout his life, creating a lasting impact on Kinston and Lenoir County.
County Manager Michael S. James said Best’s years of service left a meaningful legacy.
“Commissioner Best was a steadfast advocate for Lenoir County and served our community with great dedication, integrity, and distinction,” James said. “His leadership, wisdom, and genuine care for this community will be profoundly missed.”
Beyond his official roles, Best was remembered as a devoted husband, father, and friend whose warmth and compassion extended far beyond the boardroom. His passing leaves a significant void in Lenoir County, where he was known not only as a public official, but as a man who truly cared for the people he served.
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