John W. Briggs

(May 6th, 1932 - January 27, 2025

John Walter Briggs was born May 6th, 1932, in Lawrenceville (Brunswick County), Virginia, to Walter Briggs and Ida (Mason) Briggs. He was one of five children.

After graduating from St. Paul's High School, he enlisted in the United States Army in June of 1950. He fought valiantly on the front lines during the Korean War (1950-1953). For bravery on the battlefield, he was awarded three Bronze Stars along with military merit honors in rifle and artillery.

After the war ended, he moved to Louisville, Kentucky, where he worked two jobs simultaneously: as an orderly at Kosair Children's Hospital and as a floor supervisor at Jefferson County Youth Detention Center. He was affectionately known as "The Colonel" and “Big Daddy Briggs” while working with children and youth.

He was a member of Magazine Street SDA Church and enjoyed attending weekly services. He retired from both jobs after thirty-four years of service and later moved to Tallahassee, Florida, with his wife of 35 years, Patricia Briggs, who preceded him in death in 2004.

He became active as the vice-president of the Tallahassee Chapter of 100 Black Men and attended First Tallahassee SDA Church. He became a frequent patron at Table 23 Restaurant, where he would dine daily, have a glass of red wine, and socialize with others. Table 23 became his second home and part of his extended family.

"The Colonel" was an avid Florida State University Seminoles fan and took great pleasure in cheering his team in basketball and football. He enjoyed working out at the gym, traveling, listening to jazz music, and the Kentucky Derby.

He is survived by:

- His companion of twenty years, Filnara Derrington

- Children: Reggie Watkins (Lynetta), Lawana Briggs, and Tanya Briggs Baker (Steve)

- Two granddaughters: Dr. Simone Bruce and Ashley Lyles

- Four great-grandchildren: Kaiden, Kairo, Aleah and Ariah

- Nephew: Howard Gholson (Glorine)

- Great-niece and Great-nephew: Debbie Wright and Jay Gholson

- And a host of other relatives and friends

John, also known as "Tony," "Pops," "Tony-Daddy" “Big Daddy Briggs” and "The Colonel” was a loving, caring father and friend who never met a stranger. He will truly be missed by all.