Donald Briggs

Donald was born in Weymouth, Massachusetts, to the late James and Barbara (Lewis) Briggs. He graduated from Abington High School in 1955 and went on to attend Northeastern University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and participated in the ROTC program. Following graduation, Donald proudly served his country in both the U.S. Army and the Army Reserves. His service included an 18-month deployment to Germany—an experience he held fond memories of and spoke about often. He concluded his military service as a First Lieutenant in 1969. The military instilled in him a profound, lifelong sense of discipline that shaped both his character and his career.

Donald established a successful career in finance, which relocated him to New Jersey. He spent several years working for McGraw Hill Inc. before joining New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance Co., where he dedicated over 25 years of service until his retirement. Beyond his professional life, Donald possessed a deep love for classical music, the piano, and the organ. A talented musician, he shared his gifts by playing the organ for various churches throughout his lifetime, including many dedicated years at the Langhorne Presbyterian Church in Langhorne, Pennsylvania. Later in life, Donald moved to Truro, Massachusetts, to be closer to his family, creating many cherished memories on Cape Cod. He will always be remembered for his kindness, quick wit, and sense of humor. Though soft-spoken, he had a unique gift for leaving everyone he met with a smile.

Donald is survived by his loving daughters, Paige Perry and her husband, Glenn, and Cheryl Burkinshaw of Merrimac, Massachusetts. He is also survived by his brother, Robert Briggs of East Brookfield, Massachusetts. He will be fondly remembered by his grandchildren, Angelina Lammie and her partner Sam Mohrweis, Bradley Lammie and his wife Elin, Emma Burkinshaw, and Shae Perry, as well as his two precious great-granddaughters. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews. Donald was predeceased by his parents, his brother Richard Briggs, his sister Linda Dempsey and his son-in-law Brett Burkinshaw.

The family is planning a celebration of life to be held at a later date. Donations may be made in Donald’s memory to the Provincetown Council on Aging (2 Mayflower St, Provincetown, MA 02657), where he thoroughly enjoyed spending every Wednesday having lunch in the company of good friends.