Melvin Lee Best Jr.

Melvin (Mel) Lee Best Jr, 43, of Twin Bridges, Montana peacefully passed away on August 12, 2022, surrounded by loved ones, after a short yet brave battle with liver disease.



Mel was born on September 5, 1978, to Melvin Best Sr and Kim Best in Bakersfield, CA. In his younger years Mel prided himself on the fact that he got to enjoy so much time with his late grandfather Clarence, whom he considered his biggest mentor and role model. Mel grew up with his siblings, cousins and friends exploring and playing around his grandparent's property.



Mel began a successful career in Real Estate and Property Management for over 10 years in Bakersfield and the surrounding areas. He was passionate about his career and loved what he did for a living. Mel was blessed to have welcomed his two sons Andrew & Xander into this world in 2000 & 2003 with his then spouse Katie Best. Mel loved his boys unconditionally; he enjoyed taking them on vacations. He always spoke highly of his family and enjoyed spending many of days at the beach.



In 2011 Mel became true with himself and began the life he deserved by coming out and living life as a proud gay man. In 2015, Mel met the love of his life Koy Hernandez in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Mel and Koy bonded strongly over their love of country music, specifically Merle Haggard, the importance of family and poor attempts at shooting pool. For many years they enjoyed long drives exploring the pacific northwest and Koy’s home state of Montana. Mel fell in love with Montana, and they moved to the Ruby Valley in 2020. There they spent some of the best years surrounded by his Montana family, many amazing friends and the wonderful people of the Ruby Valley.



Mel was preceded in death by his father Melvin Sr. Grandparents Clarence and Opal Best and Raymond and Laverne Fraze.



He is survived by his husband Koy Hernandez, Mother Kim Best and her brother Jeff Fraze, and her best friend Nellie King. Brothers Edward Best, Jacob Dye and Matthew Best and his sons Andrew and Xander Best, beloved friend Vera and so many more friends, family & extended family.



A celebration of life has been planned on September 3, 2022, at Koy & Mel’s home in Twin Bridges, Montana. The spreading of his ashes will be planned at a later date.