Evard P. Best, Jr., Age 87, of Blue Ridge, GA, passed away suddenly on Dec 3, 2021. Evard was born June 21, 1934 in Pittsburgh, PA. He graduated from Momouth College in 1956, and shortly after moved to Eagan, MN where he taught 5th and 6th grade in the Burnsville School District. He also earned a masters degree from Mankato State University. He touched countless lives in his career as an educator. In the summers he enjoyed building houses for fellow teachers with his friends Wally and Darryl. He had a passion for aviation and went on to become a pilot. Later in life, he discovered a hidden love for all things horse racing. He was also a devoted father. Ev spent his retirement with his lifelong friend and loving companion, Bev. Together they traveled, visited relatives, and enjoyed each others company for 10 happy years. Evard is survived by his daughter Terre and Paul Smith; his son Scott and RoxAnne Best; his special friend Beverly Schaffer; friends and coworkers. He will be dearly missed by those who knew and loved him.