Gary D. Briggs

Gary Dale Briggs ,87, of Memphis passed away on December 9, 2024 at Scotland County Hospital. He was born on January 14, 1937 in Kirksville MO. He attended Prairie View Rural School and was a 1954 graduate of Memphis High School. On June 3, 1956 he married Adrianna Jean Black and to this union 3 children were born: Deborah Jo, Susan Rae, and Gary David. They celebrated 68 years of marriage this past June.

 Gary went to Auto Trade School in Kansas City, Kansas where he began his career in auto body repair. He worked for Harris Motor Company in Memphis for 5 years before venturing out on his own at Gary's Body Shop in 1967. He spent years in this shop sharing his passion for cars teaching students at Scotland Co. R-1 about auto body repair through the COE program. Gary ran his shop until he retired in 2008. After retirement, Gary's desire to keep his hands busy led him to pursue woodworking as his new hobby. He made beautiful wooden bowls, vases, clocks, cutting boards, and various other items. Despite his quiet and humble demeanor, Gary thrived on setting up a booth at craft markets and discussing his work with customers.

 Gary is survived by his wife, Adrianna, and 3 children, Debbie & Von Abbott of Novinger, Susan & Bill Kamps of Houston, TX, and David Briggs of Kirksville. His 4 grandsons, Steve Abbott of Jefferson City, Justin & Kati Abbott of Columbia, Isaac and Adrian Briggs of Kirksville. His 7 great-grandchildren Caiden, Liam, Ruby, Max, Coen, Cooper, and Giovanni Abbott. One brother, Roger & Barbara of Hannibal, MO. One sister-in-law, Benji Briggs. One daughter-in-law Tisha Kice-Briggs. He was also survived by countless other loved ones including his many nephews, nieces, and friends with a special mention of his much appreciated friend, Vickie Hilpert, who took him and Adrianna to places they needed to be in the last few years. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Wayne & Mary Briggs, 2 brothers, Robert Briggs and Richard & Christine Briggs. His in-laws Adrian & Ruby Black. Brother-in-law Chester Black and wife Lucy, and nephew Michael Briggs.

Gary was a devout member of First Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, Trustee, and Sunday School Secretary for over 45 years. He enjoyed attending services as long as his health allowed.

Memorials in lieu of flowers are suggested to either the Dover Cemetery Association or the Scotland County Cancer Fund and may be left at or mailed to the Payne Funeral Chapel, 202 E. Madison St. Memphis, MO 63555.