John R. Briggs

John R. Briggs, 85, of Blooming Valley, died Wednesday, July 17, 1996 at Meadville Medical Center following a period of declining health.

He was born in Blooming Valley, October 13, 1910, a son of the late Frank F. and Inez (Braymer) Briggs.  He married Thelma E. Hibbarb on October 12, 1935.  She survives.

He worked for 43 years for Talon, retiring in 1975 as a tool and die maker.  Prior to his employment at Talon, he worked at the Erie Railroad where he received a Journeyman Card in the machinist trade.

He attended Guys Mills public schools, was a member of Blooming Valley United Methodist Church, a 50 year member of Cussewago Lodge #108 IOOF, a member of Meadville Sportsman's Club and Local #110 IAM.

Survivors, in addition to his wife, include:  a son Rodney Briggs of Meadville, three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by seven sisters, Leota Ferguson, Vera Waid, Gaye Hotchkin, Treva Frye, Lucy Hart, Gladness Cotterell and Estelle Peterman Steiger; and two brothers, Zephra Briggs and James Briggs.

Services were held at Waid Funeral Home.

Interment was in Roselawn Memorial Gardens.