Maurice Ray Briggs

Maurice Ray Briggs, a beloved figure in the community and a devoted family man, passed away on February 27, 2025, at the age of 96. He was born the son his late father Ira Lusky Briggs and late mother Lorain Blanch Leftwich Briggs on April 7, 1928 in Greenbriar, TN. Maurice led a life marked by kindness, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to his family and friends.

Maurice enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as a manager at H.G. Hills, serving the company with pride for 40 years. His kind and soft-spoken nature endeared him to many, as he never met a stranger. He was known for the countless connections he made throughout his life; it was not uncommon for him to engage with someone he knew wherever he went. He was a generous, selfless loving person who showed it on a daily basis. A person you could always rely on. 

A proud member of the United States Marines and a veteran of World War II, Maurice exemplified the values of courage and service. His military background was an integral part of his identity, shaping his character and values throughout his life.

He was a long time dedicated member of Bethel Baptist Church, where he served as a loyal and dedicated deacon for over 50 years.

In his younger years, Maurice delighted in the simple joys of fishing, hunting, gardening, raising cattle, camping, and farming; pursuits that brought him great pleasure and cherished memories.

Maurice is proceeded in death by his loving and dedicated wife Juanita Pruitt Briggs of 66 years. He is also preceded in death by his brothers Bobby Briggs, Vernon Briggs, and Milton Kemp Briggs, his sisters Edna Ruth Kirby, Betty Callis, Mildred Carr, and Fay Adcock, and his parents Ira and Lorain Briggs. 

He is survived by his children Gary Briggs and Lisa Briggs Hale (Ed), his grandchildren Brian Hale (Elyse), David Hale (Rachael), and Lindsay Hale Bonnell (Lucus), and his great grandchildren William Hale, Brady Hale, Holland Hale, Ezra Hale, and Levi Bonnell. Maurice is also survived by his siblings Beverly Scurlock, Judy Morris, and Jerry Briggs, as well as many cousins, neices and nephews.

The family would also like to extend a thank you to Ms. Diana Brass, Mr. Briggs long time care giver.

A visitation in honor of Maurice will be held on March 6, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. Another visitation will take place on March 7, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Bethel Baptist Church in Greenbrier, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2:00 PM.

The memory of Maurice Ray Briggs will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing his legacy of kindness and his family connections.