Col. Richard W. Briggs

Col. Richard W. Briggs, age 85, of Athens, passed away Thursday, December 16, 2021 at his residence.

Richard was born on November 4, 1936 in Fairbury, IL the son of William and Pearl Morrison – Briggs.

Richard married Diana Shields on August 24, 1957.  She preceded him in death on April 20, 2019.

Mourning his passing are two sons, Brett (Jana) Briggs and Brian (Kimberly) Briggs; four grandsons; five great-grandchildren; brother, Ronald (Joyce) Briggs; sister, Beverly (Robert) Burkhardt; and sister-in-law Joan Briggs.

He is preceded in death by both parents, his wife, one brother.

Richard retired after 37 years in the Army National Guard as a Colonel. He was also an avid outdoors man and woodworker. He enjoyed traveling with Diana in their motorhome. Their biggest and favorite trip was to Alaska.

Richard was a member of the Athens Christian Church.

Cremation rites will be accorded.

Visitation for Richard will be held on Saturday, January 8, 2022 from 10 – 11 AM at the Athens Christian Church. Services will immediately follow at 11 AM.

Burial of cremains will take place in Saunemin, IL.

Memorials can be made to Athens Christian Church.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the Briggs family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.