Reverend William Briggs, Jr.

Reverend William Briggs, Jr. of Federalsburg MD walked into the arms of his Savior on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Caroline Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Denton, MD. He was 98. William Briggs, Jr. was born March 26, 1927 in Federalsburg Maryland. His parents were the Reverend William Edward & Edna Briggs. The family was composed of three siblings: Dorsey Lee Briggs, the oldest and Samuel Edward Briggs, the youngest. Both are now deceased. He loved his brothers and was beloved by them. William grew up like most African American youth in Caroline County. He spent most of his time tinkering on cars, working for the local farmers, doing odd jobs and working at local canneries i.e., Gile Wright near American Corner Road. He also worked for TAG-ALONG TRAILERS from April 1965 until his retirement August 1997 (32 years). His first assignment there was a welder, and he finished his career there as a Plant Manager August 1949, William met "the love of his life", Audrey Ann Dickerson. Their whirlwind romance led to a proposal just a few months later in December. Married on January 9, 1950, marked the beginning of their 64- year journey together until her death, which was a testament of their enduring love for each other. In his spare time, Rev Briggs enjoyed hunting, fishing, and traveling. He also enjoyed his daily walks (except for Sunday), working around his home, talking to people, and spending time with his family and friends. Influenced by his family background, William has lived his life as a Christian. With his father, uncle and brother serving as pastors, this instilled in him to follow the legacy of those who had gone this way before him. From 1989 to 2007, he served as Pastor of Solomon AUMP Church under Bishop Delbert L. Jackson, Presiding Prelate. He also loved to sing and was a member of an all-male gospel group, the United Gospel Male Chorus from 1960 - 2006. After Rev. Briggs retired as a pastor, he devoted his time to his beloved wife Audrey who was suffering from Alzheimer's disease and continued to volunteer his time to the community and his religious services. Rev. Briggs leaves to cherish his memory to his children: William Harold Briggs (Debra) of Newark, DE and Barbara A. Cook of Cecilton, MD.; Godson Donald Henry of Bridgeville, DE.; two grandchildren: Jenee' Briggs-Sampson (Eric) of Secane, PA & LaShea Briggs of Newark, DE. A special niece/sister-in-law, Loretta Briggs of Federalsburg, MD and a special nephew, Maurice Stanford of Federalsburg, MD along with a host a of grandnieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Rev. Briggs' favorite Bible verse John 3:16 (New King James Version) "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." Favorite Gospel Song "OH HAPPY DAY" Services for Rev. Briggs will be held Saturday, May 31 at Union United Methodist Church in Federalsburg at 11:00. A public visitation will take place from 9:00-10:15 with a Masonic Last Rites Ceremony beginning at 10:15. Burial at Federal Hill Cemetery will follow the funeral service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Rev. Briggs' memory to Solomon AUMP Church (4992 Skinners Run Road, Hurlock, MD 21643). Share memories and condolences with the family at www.framptom.com

Reverend William Briggs, Jr.

March 26, 1927 - May 22, 2025