“Let all that you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14
Ina D. King, affectionately known—and self-proclaimed—as “The Kid,” passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, in Minnesota, surrounded by her loved ones. She was in her 78th year.
Born on December 11, 1948, in Monrovia, Liberia, Ina was a cherished member of the Best, Porte, Stewart, and Eastman families. She was the last surviving daughter of her mother, Lillian Porte Best. She was preceded in death by her beloved mother; her sisters, Sybil Best-Sieh, Beryl Best Brewer, Genevieve Best Dorbor, and Muriel Best; and her brother, Kelvyn Best.
Ina was a proud graduate of St. Teresa’s Convent, Class of 1966. She earned her degree from the University of Liberia in 1970 and later obtained a Master of Business Administration from the University of Santa Barbara, California. Her academic journey reflected her determination, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Before immigrating to the United States, Ina worked at the Ministry of Commerce in Liberia. After relocating, she joined the law firm of Sydney and Austin and later continued her career with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services, where she served as a dedicated Case Worker. In this role, she exemplified compassion, professionalism, and a deep commitment to helping others.
Ina made her home in Los Angeles for 52 years before relocating to Las Vegas in 2023. In January 2026, as her health declined, her family moved her to Minnesota so she could be surrounded by the same love and care she had so generously given throughout her life.
An avid athlete in her youth, Ina excelled in kickball, volleyball, and basketball during her high school and college years. She proudly represented Liberia in a table tennis tournament in China in the 1970s—an achievement that highlighted her talent and dedication. She also participated in the LA Marathon, a testament to her endurance, discipline, and lifelong commitment to fitness. Beyond sports, Ina loved to dance, bringing joy, energy, and light to all who knew her.
Ina will be remembered for her warmth, vibrant spirit, and deep love for family and friends. She had a remarkable ability to connect with people and left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Even in her final moments, she expressed the essence of her life—love—repeating “I love you” to those around her.
She is survived by her brothers, Dr. Kenneth Y. Best and K. Neville A. Best; her lifelong friends, Fatu Dennis, Magdalene Hanson, Melissa Emeh, Sarah Sherman, Wheatonia Dixon Barnes, Helen Togba, Violet Thomas, Mary Amet, Massa Lasannah, and Gledy Wariebi; Gwendolyn Aniteye, her Snapperhill family; as well as several nieces, nephews, and a host of relatives across the world, including Liberia, South Africa, Portugal, and Australia.
A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at St. Andrews Episcopal Church, 1832 N James Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55411. A funeral and burial service will take place in Crozierville, Liberia, at a later date to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made as follows:
Family Contributions
Quallyna Porte-Dunbar
Cash App: $quallynaporte
Zelle: 301-806-1473
Other Contributions
Brenda Sieh
Cash App: $Brendasieh
Zelle: 763-412-7118
Wells Fargo Bank: Account 1212336463
For Additional Information
Dr. Kenneth Y. Best (Brother): +231 88 681 2888
MaeGene Best (Sister-in-law): +231 77 706 1187
Ambassador Lorenzo Witherspoon (Nephew): +27 64 702 4595
Yvonne Beauty Adighibe (Niece): +1 862-377-9828
Brenda Sieh (Niece): +1 763-412-7118
Ina’s legacy of love, strength, and joy will live on in all who were blessed to know her.
