James Whitney Briggs

James Whitney Briggs, 92, died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, April 7, 2018, surrounded by loved ones. Jim Briggs was born January 23, 1926, in Tonkawa, Oklahoma to Clara Alice Lewis and Daniel Briggs. He grew up in Bartlesville and had many cherished boyhood memories he enjoyed sharing with his family.He was proceeded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Lucille Mae Hendrix Briggs, sons James L. Briggs and Richard Briggs; his parents and his two brothers Clyde Stewart and Bill Briggs, who were both veterans of WWII. Some of the families’ favorite memories were celebrating Christmas Eve at the farm where he would wear his Santa hat and pass out a room full of presents with love and his wonderful laugher that came so easily.Jim volunteered for the U.S. Navy and served in the Pacific War Theatre on LSM 75. After the War, Jim began his career at Oklahoma Gas and Electric as a meter reader and retired as Central Regional manager in 1987, after almost 40 years of service. After retirement, Jim and Lucille built their dream home on their farm in Meeker. They also bought a travel trailer and enjoyed traveling from coast to coast—often with their children and grandchildren.Jim and Lucille were members and Sunday school teachers at Aydelotte Baptist Church for many years. During his career Jim enjoyed being an active member of his community, serving as President of the Midwest City, South Oklahoma City, and Shawnee Chambers of Commerce. He was also on the Boards of the Midwest City Lion’s Club, the Capital Hill Kiwanis Club, Shawnee Salvation Army and The United Way. In addition, Jim served on the Midwest City YMCA, the American Red Cross, the South Oklahoma City Hospital and the Unity Hospital of Shawnee Boards. As chair of the Unity Foundation, he helped raise funds for the Hospital’s $5,000,000 expansion.He is survived by daughter Betty S. Briggs, Tyler, TX; son Steven E. Briggs and wife Susan, Piedmont. Jim is survived by ten grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Services will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 14, 2018 at Walker Funeral Chapel.  Burial will follow in Resthaven Memory Gardens,  104th and South Walker Okla. City.Pallbearers will be grandsons Rob Helt, Travis Briggs, Richard Briggs II and Brent Clement.Honorary pallbearers are granddaughters Kristin Helt Clement, Jae Briggs, Whitney Briggs, Allie Schneider and Tammy Briggs.