WA - It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Sheldon Joseph Best, who was born on December 29, 1940, in New York, New York, and died peacefully at home on January 11, 2026, in Seattle, Washington, after a lengthy battle with Parkinson's disease. He was surrounded by his wife and family.

Sheldon shared 35 beautiful years of love, marriage, and friendship with his beloved wife, Linda. He is survived by Linda; his four daughters, Michelle, Suzanne, Stephanie, and Tiffany; his son-in-law, Dan Garratt; and his cherished grandchildren, Corin, Hayden, Harrison, Brendan, Xavier, and Vivienne.

After a life marked by adventure, service, compassion, strength, and unwavering devotion to God and family, Sheldon is now in the arms of our Lord, reunited with his son, Sheldon Jr.; his parents, Audrey and Herman Best; and his grandson, Patrick Seamus Xavier Good.

Among Sheldon's many accomplishments, he would say his greatest achievement was being a father and a grandpa. His life was also rich with notable milestones. He was a proud graduate of Texas A&M University, Class of 1963, where he served as Student Body President.

After graduating from college, Sheldon quickly climbed the career ladder before answering the call to serve his country. He honorably served in the United States Marine Corps, attaining the rank of Captain in the elite Force Recon Special Forces unit. His military service included two tours during the Vietnam War (1965-1966), where he was first boots on the ground in Da Nang.

Following his military service, Sheldon returned to the aviation industry, where he built an extraordinary career. Rising through the ranks, he eventually became President of United Airlines, while also leading extensively in aviation sales and marketing.

He was also deeply committed to civic engagement, generously giving his leadership and time to numerous organizations, including United Way, Junior Achievement, the Urban League, the Downtown Seattle Development Association, PONCHO (Patrons of Northwest Civic, Cultural, and Charitable Organizations), Seattle University, Holy Names Academy, the Rainier Club, and the Seattle Mariners RBI Club.

A lifelong sports fanatic, Sheldon proudly cheered for the Fighting Texas Aggies and was a devoted season ticket holder for the Seattle Seahawks and the Seattle Mariners. He was also a diehard fan of the New York Yankees and the Dallas Cowboys. He attended 19 Super Bowls—but above all, he was the loudest and proudest supporter of any team his children or grandchildren played on.

Affectionately known as "Mr. Blue" by his tailor—thanks to a wardrobe dominated by that color, perfectly matched to his sparkling blue eyes—Sheldon was unforgettable. He had fabulously curly dark brown hair that he insisted on cutting short the moment anyone complimented it. He never met a bowl of spaghetti and meatballs or chicken enchiladas he didn't love.

Sheldon taught those around him never to burn bridges, was the undisputed king of "just act like you know what you're doing," could finesse a story with the best of them, and seemed to know someone everywhere he went. He worked on the Jersey Shore as a teenager, became a skilled negotiator, and was an avid reader with a deep knowledge of history and politics. A prophetic writer and sage advisor, he was always willing to listen.

Surrounded by women throughout his life—a mother, sister, wife, and four daughters—Sheldon proudly embraced his role as protector. He walked on the outside of the sidewalk, opened doors, pulled out chairs, and never took his seat until all the women at the table were seated. He was a true gentleman in every sense.

Sheldon loved world travel, sailing, and water views, and he was a devoted Catholic. He was a passionate fan of Neil Diamond and Barry Manilow—and if it had a score, Sheldon was watching.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Sheldon's honor to Parkinson's disease research through the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Sheldon Joseph Best lived a life of faith, integrity, service, and deep love. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Catherine's Church, on February 7th, 2026 at 11am. NE 85th St, Seattle, WA 98115.