Donna Smith Briggs

Donna Smith Briggs
September 27, 1929-March 16, 2026

Donna Smith Briggs passed away in her sleep on March 16, 2026, at the age of 96. At the time of her death, she was a resident at Germantown Plantation Senior Living Community, where she had lived for the past 8 years. She was preceded in death by her husband Bill, mother, Esther Wright, stepfather, Asa Wright, and father, Aubrey Smith. She is survived by her three children, Susan Dold (Kenny), Janet Meyner, and Billy Briggs (Gail), her sister, Judy Crum, of Scottsdale, Arizona, seven grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.

Donna was a 1947 graduate of Messick High School. She attended Memphis State, where she was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority. She and Bill were married in the fall of 1948; he passed away shortly before their 62nd wedding anniversary.

Donna's life revolved around family, church, and friends. A lifelong Presbyterian, she was a member of Woodland Presbyterian Church, where she was an active participant in the Women of the Church and in great demand as a Bible study leader until her health failed. She and Bill relocated many times during their marriage, and with each move they immediately found a church home. After their children grew up, they traveled extensively, internationally and domestically, in conjunction with Bill's work and for pleasure. They were also involved in the lives of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, attending ball games and school programs and hosting sleepovers.

In addition to her loving family, Donna had a wide circle of friends who stayed in touch with her long after she was able to participate in social activities. Her optimism was contagious; she was a bright light to all who knew her. According to her wishes, her body has been donated to the Genesis Whole Body Donation Program. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Woodland Presbyterian Church or the charity of the donor's choice.