“Let all that you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14
Ina D. King
“The Kid”
Ina D. King, affectionately known—and proudly self-proclaimed—as “The Kid,” passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, in Minnesota, surrounded by loved ones. She was 77.
Born on December 11, 1948, in Monrovia, Liberia, Ina was a cherished daughter of the Best, Porte, Stewart, and Eastman families. She was the last surviving daughter of her mother, Lillian Porte Best, and carried forward a lineage defined by resilience, intellect, and quiet strength. She was predeceased by her mother; her sisters, Sybil Best-Sieh, Beryl Best Brewer, Genevieve Best Dorbor, and Muriel Best; and her brother, Kelvyn Best.
Ina’s life was shaped early by discipline and purpose. She began her early education at home and later attended Monrovia Demonstration Elementary School (MDES). She continued her studies at St. Teresa’s Convent, Class of 1966, and graduated from the University of Liberia in 1970. She later earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 1974.
Her professional journey began at Liberia’s Ministry of Commerce. After immigrating to the United States, she worked with Sydney and Austin LLP before joining the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services as a caseworker. There, she was known for her compassion, professionalism, and deep commitment to dignity and service.
Ina made Los Angeles her home for more than five decades before relocating to Las Vegas in 2023. In January 2026, as her health declined, she moved to Minnesota to be surrounded by family and care.
In her youth, Ina excelled in athletics, including kickball, volleyball, and basketball. She represented Liberia in a table tennis tournament in China in the 1970s and participated in the Los Angeles Marathon. She also found joy in dance, where her vibrant spirit left lasting impressions on all who knew her.
She will be remembered for her warmth, laughter, and ability to connect deeply with people across generations. Even in her final moments, she expressed her life’s message simply: “I love you.”
She is survived by her brothers, Dr. Kenneth Y. Best and K. Neville A. Best; her lifelong friends; her Snapperhill family; and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends across Liberia, South Africa, Portugal, Australia, and the United States.
Memorial Service & Celebration of Life
Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM
Location: St. Peter’s AME Episcopal Church
401 E. 41st Street
Minneapolis, MN 55409
Livestream:
https://share.google/TY5xrRe9Pcpn8kxcF
Guests are invited to celebrate her life by wearing bright and colorful attire. Those who prefer may also wear whatever they are comfortable in.
Funeral and burial arrangements in Crozierville, Liberia, will be announced at a later date.
Hotel Accommodations
For out-of-town guests, the following nearby hotels are recommended:
Hampton Inn by Hilton Brooklyn Park
9470 West Broadway
Brooklyn Park, MN 55445
Tel: +1 (763) 567-7990
Home2 Suites by Hilton Brooklyn Park
9490 West Broadway
Brooklyn Park, MN 55445
Tel: +1 (763) 567-5810
