MSG Arlington (Jerry) Briggs (85) born December 21,1935 passed on to Glory on January 6, 2021 after a brief illness. Per his wishes, cremation is taking place. He was born in Philadelphia, PA to Edward and Louise Briggs. He was their second child. He had two older sisters from his fathers previous marriage, Wilhelmina and Pauline.
He joined the United States Air Force in 1955, and served for 4 years in California and Texas. After an honorable discharge, he returned to Philadelphia PA where he then joined the Air National Guard. There he was an Aircraft Technician for 40 years, retiring as a Master Tech Sergeant in 1995.
He has three children from a previous marriage; April, Jerald and Beverly. He married his second love LaDora Gail Graham in 1992 in Philadelphia, PA and took on additional family as his own. He and his wife moved to Niles, MI in 1997 where they lived their retirement years.
He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Charles, sisters Wilhelmina and Pauline, and spouse LaDora. He is survived by his children; April Cirwithen and Beverly Briggs of Georgia, Jerald Briggs of Pennsylvania, Cynthia(Tim) Burns of Indiana and Mary Monahon, LaVona Hodgson, Bob Peppers all of Michigan. He is also survived by grandchildren; Erica Cirwithen, Sean Cirwithen, Cameron Briggs, Joshua(Theresa) Graham, Donald Graham, Julie Peppers, Sita Peppers,Kristina Monahon, Charles Monahon Jr, John Monahon, Greg Hodgson Jr, Amanda Cunningham, Vanessa Wilcox, Savannah Peppers, Candyce Peppers, Ernie Ames and Jason Ames. As well as multiple great(great) grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, many friends and his special buddy Falcor. He was a great father, grandfather, brother and friend. Always had a smile and friendly word for everyone he met. Devoted to his family, believed in hard work, standing by your word and was very proud to be a Veteran of the USAF. Although he was asked many times about Area 51 his response was “I don’t know what you’re talking about”. He stayed loyal to his country until he proudly earned his permanent wings on January 6, 2021.
Posted On: Thursday, January 14, 2021 5:58 PM
