George Michael Briggs

George Michael Briggs “Mike,” 69, was called to his eternal home on July 28th, 2020, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. His unwavering faith in God, will to live, and devotion to his family and friends gave him strength to continue glorifying God throughout his illness.

Mike was born on March 6, 1951, in High Point, NC, where he grew up with his parents George and Helen Briggs and his younger sister, Patti. He graduated from the University of South Carolina, where he studied English and ultimately went on to pursue his doctorate in Political Science. While attending USC, he met and married the love of his life, Lilla Ann. Married for 43 years, Mike and Lilla Ann adored each other and loved every minute of raising their four daughters together. In the past several years, they have been blessed with five grandchildren, who are a constant source of love and joy to “Big G and Nana.”

Known for his genuine care and concern for others, he touched countless lives in both his business and church communities. For 23 years, Mike worked as President and CEO of Central SC Alliance where he recruited industry to the Midlands and created countless jobs for the people of South Carolina. Mike also enjoyed teaching in the Political Science Department at USC as an adjunct professor. In 2018 he was inducted into the 50 Most Influential People in Columbia Hall of Fame. While he was dedicated and successful in his career, his family and his church remained his first priorities.

For 40 years, Mike and Lilla Ann Briggs have been active members of Shandon United Methodist Church in Columbia. Mike’s love for Christ led him to use his God-given talents to create & start ‘Lifeline’- Shandon’s contemporary worship service. As worship leader and lead singer of the Lifeline Band for over 20 years, Mike’s strong voice was heard each Sunday singing praises to God. In 1998, he began volunteering as a youth group counselor and continued to serve on Youth Mission Project trips, helping to build and repair homes in Hollywood, South Carolina. He taught youth and adult Sunday school classes and also spearheaded a wheelchair ramp ministry to love and support community members in need.

Mike was the epitome of a loving husband, a devoted father, and a loyal friend. His Godly wisdom, unwavering optimism, and comforting hugs will forever be tucked firmly in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His legacy of faith will be carried on by Lilla Ann, his wife and biggest supporter, and their daughters Lilla (David), Wimberly (John), Ashley (Matt), and Georgia (Cameron) and grandchildren (Wells, Molly Mae, Sims, Noah, and Beckett).

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to Shandon United Methodist Church in loving memory of Mike Briggs.

Due to COVID-19, a private family burial will be followed by a private family service. The service celebrating Mike’s life will be live streamed at 11:00am on Friday, July 31st. Our family would love for you to click the link below to join us virtually.

https://youtu.be/-rOeqX47u28v

In addition, we will plan an event celebrating Mike’s remarkable life of service to God (tentatively July 2021). More details will be announced at a later date.