Dolores Briggs

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life so beautifully lived, we announce that Dolores F. "Dee" Briggs went home to be in the peace of the Lord on Monday, August 18, 2025. Born in Olivet, Michigan on December 21, 1919, to the late Stanley and Rhea Perry, Dee's journey through 105 remarkable years stands as a testament to her unwavering love for Christ, her enduring faith in His love for us, and the bonds of family that endure beyond time.
Dee was known to be the oldest living member of the Perry family lineage, a distinction earned through years enhanced with wisdom and grace. She was blessed with 58 joyous years alongside her beloved husband, Milton Briggs, Sr., until his passing in 1999-a union marked by devotion, laughter, and resilience in the face of life's changing seasons.
She is now reunited with her parents, Stanley and Rhea; her dear husband, Milton; her brothers and their wives, Lawrence (Genevieve), Vinton (Peggy), and George (Ruth); and her son-in-law, Ted Ransbottom. Though her absence leaves a tender emptiness, the memory of her kindness, strength and determination will forever warm the hearts of those she leaves behind.
Dee's legacy continues through her loving children, Kristi Ransbottom, Milton "Butch" Briggs, Jr., and Kevin (Becky) Briggs. Her grandchildren-Staci Hendershott, Kari Hendershott, Tim (Susie) Hendershott, Chris (Lindsey) Briggs, Brandon (Bri) Briggs, and Kelsi (Billy Henton-Lopez) Briggs-to carry forward her spirit, as do her eight great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren, each touched by her love.
An adventurer at heart, Dee cherished camping as the children grew up and then exploring the world, from the awe-inspiring landscapes of Alaska to the emerald hills of Ireland, the history-rich streets of England and France, and forty-two cherished years beneath the Florida sun in New Smyrna Beach during Michigan's wintery months. Her adventurous soul was matched only by her creativity and humor; she delighted in crossword puzzles, a well-planned April Fool's prank, and the simple pleasures of Krispy Kreme donuts (or any junk food for that matter).
Dee will be remembered for her impeccable style-always beautifully "put together" right to the end with her hair, nails, jewelry, and clothing-a reflection of her determined spirit and zest for life. Her family recalls with fond smiles her inventive food pairings, her generosity (ensuring every gift that was given perfectly equal, down to the penny), and her Christmas cookies and her legendary red cake.
Even in relaxation, Dee's mind was lively, whether engaged in an extra-large print crossword puzzle or watching her favorite shows, NCIS and Jeopardy, surrounded by the comfort of family and friends. A visitation to honor Dee's life will be held on Friday, August 22, from 10:30 a.m. until 12 noon at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th St. SE, with a funeral service beginning at 12 noon, lovingly officiated by Pastor Dick Riley. She will be laid to rest in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.
To celebrate Dee's love for her grand dogs, Farah, Askem, Vern and Pretty memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of West Michigan. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Beacon Hill Assisted Living and Emmanuel Hospice, whose tender care offered comfort and dignity in her final days.
Though we bid farewell with sorrow, Dee's legacy of love, laughter, and courage will echo through generations. She leaves behind a treasury of cherished memories-a reminder to live with joy, love fiercely, and always care for one another.