William Ellsworth Briggs

BRIGGS - William E. Briggs, 93, passed away peacefully on April 27 at McGraw Hospice Center in Jacksonville, FL. with his family by his side. He was born in Oak Creek, Colorado. He proudly served in the 101st Airborne Division as a Para Trooper. William was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, The Purple Heart, Oakleaf Cluster, Distinguished Service Medal, Victory Medal, Bronze Star Medal, World War II American Theater Ribbon, European African Middle Eastern Ribbon with 3 Bronze Battle Stars. He worked for Southern Bell for 35 years as a Central Office Equipment Engineer. He was an avid Gator Fan and never missed a game. William is survived by his wife Evelyn of 68 years; two sons Gregory (Pattii) and Michael (Ginger); three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews by whom he was beloved. He was preceded in death by his brother Lt. Col. James E Briggs and his sister Betty Williamson. A memorial service will be 10:30 am Thursday, May 12, 2016, in the Chapel of Corey-Kerlin Funeral Home, 940 Cesery Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32211. William will be interred at Jacksonville National Cemetery at 12:30 pm, Thursday, May 12, 2016. Following the interment, the family has invited everyone for lunch at Live Oak Baptist Church, 36178 Congregation Lane, Callahan, FL 32011. In Lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made in William’s honor to K9sfor Warriors, 114 Camp K9 Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081,(904) 686- 1956.