Born March 4, 1932 Mingo Junction, Ohio
Died April 9, 2019, Maitland, Florida
David passed away in his sleep after an extended illness. He had been up and around the day before, asking for his coffee and then napping, as usual for him.
He leaves behind his beloved wife Betty (Cooper), his daughter Darla B. Kain and grandson Brandon, his daughter Terry B. Freeman and her husband Dave and daughters Amanda and Acacia; many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Carl J Briganti and Susanna Ferguson Reisling Briganti, older siblings Ruth, Carl, and Kay (Katherine), and son-in-law Kevin Kain.
David was born in Mingo Junction, Ohio, and he grew up there surrounded by a large extended family and many longtime friends. He moved to Altamonte Springs, Florida, in 1967 with his wife and daughters, and joined the congregation at the Altamonte Chapel (UCC).
David worked for the railroad in Mingo Junction for a short time. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in the early 1950s and served just over 2 years. He returned to Mingo Junction and began his phone company career at Ohio Bell. He worked for Philco-Ford in Da Nang Vietnam in the late 1960s. David worked for Southern Bell for many years in Orlando, FL, retiring from BellSouth Mobility (AT&T). He was a member of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and the Pioneers (Telephone Pioneers of America) for decades.
David met his wife Betty while they both worked for Ohio Bell in Steubenville, OH. They enjoyed attending company parties and dancing, especially dancing. David and Betty stayed busy caring for their children and other family members, working hard, socializing with friends and neighbors at parties, and traveling. Through all of life’s ups and downs during 61 years of marriage they always loved each other and always danced.
David’s daughters, grandchildren, and many friends have cherished memories of him. Bouncing on his knee (the pony) singing “Pop Goes the Weasel”. Naps on his big floor pillows. Playing with his Lionel train set at Christmas. His stories. “Let me tell you about a little trick I learned in Egypt.” His willingness to help others. “Pull my finger”. Chatting with him and puttering in his garage. His advice on finances, careers, and the Air Force. Playing softball and being a Little League coach. His passionate debates with family and friends. Shooting pool with him. Dancing with him at our wedding receptions. Walking into his favorite restaurants and hearing the staff call out “Hi DJ!”. Taking Betty and the kids to Walt Disney World, he didn’t like going to Disney, so he proudly wore the “Grumpy” sweatshirt that Betty bought for him. Most of all we remember his love for Betty, they way they’d tease, fuss at each other and then make up, and smooching in front of the kids.
We love you and miss you!
May you have Blue Skies, a Tailwind, and a beautiful reception in heaven.
May our memories of you and God's grace comfort all who loved you.
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