Chakra James Best, a powerlifter, astronomy enthusiast and elementary school program manager who was loved by many family members and friends, died on Jan. 26 in Seattle from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. He was 24.

Chakra was born in July 1998, in Hillsborough, NC, to Nama and Michael Best. He had an older brother, Jahnu Best, younger brother Vikram Best, sister Tarani Best, and six more minor siblings.

He was homeschooled until he graduated at age 16. He then attended the University of Hawai’i at Hilo, where he studied astronomy. He worked as a guide at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station, where he shared his passion for space exploration and the universe with guests.

In June 2018, he married Malia Shimabuku. They separated in June 2021 and Chakra moved to Seattle with hopes of starting a new life. He worked first at the Pacific Science Center and then at Right at School in Bellevue, WA, providing before and after school care to elementary school children. He became the manager of the program at Spiritridge Elementary School and was loved and appreciated by his superiors, coworkers, parents and kids.

He had a zest for life and pursued many activities with skill and enthusiasm. He competed in powerlifting meets in Hawaii and Washington. He rode motorcycles and dreamed of becoming a racer. He enjoyed playing video and board games, including chess, Magic the Gathering, table tennis, and Dota 2, achieving notable skill in all. He also had an early love for tennis and won many junior tournaments in Hawaii. He had hopes to further his career and eventually sustain himself through trading on the stock market.

His life was celebrated in two loving memorial services. The first one was held at his place of work. His coworkers, the children he cared for and their parents honored him with candles, flowers, and heartfelt speeches. The second one was held with his family and other friends, including those from his gym. His grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, etc., came from near and far to pay their respects and share their memories of him.

He is survived by his parents, his nine siblings and cousin-sister, estranged wife, many other relatives and friends. 

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