February 13, 1970 – August 18, 2021
Jeff Briley was relieved of his years of pain on August 18, 2021.
Jeff always believed life is temporary and lived his to the fullest. His Proudest and Happiest moments were centered around his son Hunter and Hunter’s accomplishments. Jeff knew Hunter would continue to become a wonderful young man with a kind heart.
“A father is someone who listens with his heart, speaks with his hugs, teaches not by words but by example.” (In a card from Hunter to his Dad)
He was an amazing man and never knew a stranger, forgot a name, or turned his back on anyone needing a helping hand. He could easily strike up a conversation, or would just lend an ear to whomever needed to talk. And he listened! Boy, did that guy listen! He could remember a story you told him from years past; one that you may have long forgotten. You may run into him years later and he would ask "So, how was that Mariners game you went to with your grandpa back in 1977?" That!.....is exactly who Jeffrey was!
He made friends everywhere he went, and he treated everyone he met as a friend. Rich, poor, successful, downtrodden....it made no difference to Jeff. If you had kindness in your heart, you were a friend. He did not judge, nor condemn; he just cared.
One of the greatest traits about Jeff was his ability to see the positive in everything around him. He was always smiling, always happy, always looking at the bright side of life. He truly did live every bit of his life to the fullest. When you hear someone say, "you should never leave this earth with any regrets"; that is exactly how Jeff lived his life - fully; unashamedly; lovingly; and with no regrets!
Jeff had a loving, generous heart that was bigger than the world! Unfortunately, as much love that filled his heart, it just wasn't strong enough to keep going. His family, friends, and everyone that loved him, however, can find comfort in knowing that Jeff went to Heaven very peacefully, while in the serenity of his home.
Jeffrey was an amazing son to Rick (Linda Lucy) Briley, father to his Pride & Joy, Hunter Michael Briley, brother to Jamie (Jake) Briley, uncle to Eric (Aubrey) Quaintance and Alex Quaintance, great uncle to Oliver Quaintance, nephew, cousin, and friend to many.
His mother, Gloria Harshbarger, and grandparents, B.W. & Janice Briley and Walter & Elizabeth “Jean” Welander preceded Jeffrey in death.
In respect of Jeffrey’s wishes, there will be no service or showing. His family will be honoring Jeff by taking him home to Washington State and laying him to rest near the Olympic National Forest that meant so very much to him; and where he knew he would forever be in peace.
Fly High, Jeff “Dawg”! We love and miss you!
Memorials:
If you wish to make a memorial please consider:
Humane Fort Wayne - humanefw.org
The Rescue Mission, Fort Wayne, In. www.fwrm.org/
Hunter Briley
College Fund
% Rick Briley
2127 N. Schomburg Dr.
Fort Wayne, IN. 46808
Or donor’s choice. Thank You.
Photograph courtesy of Jeff Frain. 2019.
Picture was taken at Tumwater Falls, Washington during Jeffrey’s last trip back “home” with his buddies.
Arrangements by D.O. McComb and Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home 1140 Lake Ave. Fort Wayne IN 46805. To sign the online guestbook go to www.McCombandsons.com
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