James W. Best II

January 30, 1965 – January 15, 2026

James W. Best II of Hannibal, NY. The Man. The Myth. The Legend. Known to many as “Jimmer,” passed away with his family by his side.
Jimmer was truly the life of the party. He was loved by all, a friend to everyone he met, and never missed an opportunity to tell a great story. If you knew Jimmer, you knew his laugh, his warmth, and his ability to bring people together wherever he went. His career consisted of Niagara Mohawk, Acro-Fab, and, most recently, Uber, where he loved meeting people and helping them on their journey. He will be greeted in heaven by his sister-in-law, Shelly (Schumaker) Iorizzo, and step-brother Brian Pringle.

He shared a remarkable love story with the love of his life, Sherry Best, his high school sweetheart. Together, they built a beautiful life and marriage of 38 years, rooted in love, loyalty, and family.

Jimmer was a proud and devoted father to his children, Erica (Conor) Daniels and Andrew (Haylie) Best, who were the center of his world. He is also survived by his siblings, Janice (Douglas) Scott, Walter (Courtney) Best, Russell (Sherrie) Pringle, Sally (Patrick) Griffin, and James (Suzanne) Pringle, and his parents, Elaine M. Best and James W. (Faye Elaine) Best. He also leaves behind his in-laws, Gary and Joy Schumaker, brother-in-law Wayne (Sarah) Schumaker, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Calling hours will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 11 am until 2 pm, with services to follow at Nelson Funeral Home, 11 West Albany Street, Oswego, NY.  A celebration of life will be held at 3 pm at The Oswego Elks, 132 West 5th Street, Oswego, NY.

A man of many passions, Jimmer loved his race car posse, blasting 80’s rock, and firing up his smoker every chance he got. Feeding people was one of his greatest joys — whether hosting, cooking, or welcoming neighbors into his backyard for happy hour. His home was always a place of laughter, food, music, and friendship.

In true Jimmer fashion, even in passing, he continued to give. He graciously donated his organs through Donate for Life, allowing his legacy to live on by impacting and saving others.

He was proud of who he was, where he came from, and deeply loved this country.
In honor of Jimmer, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, in loving tribute to his mother, Elaine.
James “Jimmer” Best will be remembered for his big heart, infectious personality, and the way he made everyone feel like family.

Arrangements are under the caring guidance of Nelson Funeral Home.