Herbert Briggs, Sr.

Herbert Briggs Sr. was born on October 10, 1921, in Waldo, Arkansas, to the late Mr. & Mrs. Jake Briggs. Herbert was the second of thirteen children: His siblings all but two have preceded him in death. On Friday, July 21, 2023, God called Herbert to rest after 101 years of life. Herbert relocated from Waldo, Arkansas in 1943 to begin his federal career by serving in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1964 where he served in World War II and the Vietnam War. Following his military tour, he went to work for the Military Sea Command and resigned in 1974 only to return in 1976 to sail on a wide variety of ships. He steadily progressed on his way from Galley Watch Captain to the position of Engineer Machinist until retiring in 1991. Herbert believed in working hard and being diverse in all fields. He started his new venture with the Merchant Marines where he served several years before working with the Portsmouth Housing Authority. Mr. Briggs finally retired and decided to live an amazing life off the fruits of his labor. Herbert met and married the love of his life, Rosalie Cole. They were married in Portsmouth, Virginia and they shared 27 loving years. Herbert had one son Herbert Briggs Jr. who preceded him in death and a large extended family. Herbert attended Holy Temple Church in Portsmouth, Virginia under the leadership of Pastor Steven Pierce and First Lady Maggie Pierce during his later years. He loved watching TD Jakes and listening to gospel music during his pass time. He truly loved the Lord. Mr. Briggs enjoyed cooking, working on special projects around the house and keeping up his lawn. He also loved taking long walks and caring for his beloved dog JoJo. Herbert lived a fulfilling life as a Husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, brother, friend, and faithful servant of the Lord. Duty, decency, reliability, honor, dignity, respect; these are all the qualities that he not only held in high esteem but practiced every day during his life. Surely, he will be missed. To know him was to love him. Cherishing his memory and celebrating his life he leaves: a wife (Rosalie); two sisters, and a loving extended family of sons, daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.

Herbert Briggs, Sr.

October 10, 1921 - July 21, 2023