Beloved Community Leader Earl ‘The Street Doctor’ Best, Passes Away at 74

NEWARK, NJ — Earl Best, a beloved community leader in Newark known as “The Street Doctor” and founder of the Street Warriors organization, has died.

Best had battled cancer for several years. He was 74.

The Street Doctor

Earl Best was a prime example of righting his wrongs.

Best was convicted of bank robbery and served 17 years in prison, including 10 years in solitary confinement. While serving time, he vowed to change his life and serve the community when released.

Upon his release in 2000, Best did just that by working with individuals in need on the streets of Newark and earned the name The Street Doctor.

Street Warriors

In 2003, he founded the Street Warriors organization, a nonprofit that advocates for nonviolence and runs a number of programs aimed to create outlet opportunities for youth as well as mentor community members about gang awareness and intervention.

We had the pleasure of hearing The Street Doctor speak at a Stop The Violence event at Second Baptist Church in Asbury Park, NJ. A city that was plagued by violence then, Best eloquently spoke about gangs and urged parents to not be afraid to talk to their children.

“Tell the kids to pull up their pants because they are looking for guidance and for people that cares. You must be able to show compassion and love toward the child,” Best said.

Street Doctor : community involvement

Living up to his famous saying “On the Move!” Best could be found both on foot or driving his van around the city to deliver blankets, food, and other essential items to homeless residents and people in need.

At the heart of much of his work in Newark, Best was a voice for peace, hoping his outreach efforts would bring serenity to others.

The mayor, who posted a tribute to The Street Doctor on Instagram, said Best was poor like many Newark residents, but was always willing to give. The mayor also gave Best a job as a special events coordinator in 2015.

“Here’s a man who barely had much, but was always giving what he had,” Baraka said.

Awards

The Street Doctor and Forest Whitaker

His profound leadership earned him recognition and several awards. In 2008, Best was unexpectedly honored by GQ Magazine at its Gentlemen’s Ball in New York City, receiving an award from actor Forest Whitaker.

The Street Doctor was the voice of reason and never missed a beat. He epitomized no matter what you go through, you can make it through it.

Best is survived by a son, several sisters, nieces and nephews,