David Lee Briggs

David Lee Briggs was born on October 5, 1951, in Eugene, Oregon, and grew up in nearby Springfield, where he graduated from Springfield High School. After graduation, David embarked on a remarkable journey that led him to Fiji, where he spent 35 years running the Briggs family lumber company.
David's love for the ocean was boundless-he fished, scuba dived, and even became a ship captain to deepen his connection with the sea. Fiji became his second home, a place where he built lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories. Among his many adventures, he was honored to attend the coronation of the King of Tonga as a special guest, a testament to the respect he earned and the relationships he nurtured.
It was in Fiji that David met the love of his life, Jessie. They married there and later returned to the United States to continue their journey together. Their life was filled with travel, laughter, and shared stories from around the world.
In 2003, David returned to Springfield and joined Merritt Oil, where he worked until his retirement in 2023. He was a respected and well-liked colleague whose steady presence and good humor left a lasting impression. David also gave his time to the Moose Lodge of Springfield, where he built strong friendships and contributed to the community.
David will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his unwavering kindness, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. He is survived by his loving wife, Jessie Briggs, and their dog Andie; his sister, Mary Briggs; his brother, John Briggs, and sister-in-law Susan; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
David's legacy lives on in the stories he shared, the lives he touched, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
A celebration of life will be held December 6, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Springfield Moose Lodge 2011 Laura Street in Springfield. A light lunch and dessert will be served. Please join us to share your stories and adventures you had with David. We would love to hear them. If you would like to bring a dish to share or a dessert that would be wonderful.