Willie Ray Briggs

Willie “Bill” Ray Briggs, 81, departed this life on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Willie was born on April 3, 1942 in Beirne, Arkansas. He graduated from Henry Bell High School in Gurdan, Arkansas in 1962.

Shortly after graduating, Willie moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was employed and retired from Zollner Piston after 35 years of service.

Willie played semi- professional basketball for Fort Wayne Zollners Pistons. He was the teams leading forward and scorer. In addition to playing basketball, Willie received recognition and plaques for his services and involvement in programs of the old Fort Y.M.C.A. He also, received outstanding awards for his contributions and coaching with Metropolitan Football League.

Willie enjoyed dressing up in stylish clothes and wearing the best. He also enjoyed listening to music, listening to Pastor Joel Osteen, traveling, camping, fishing and sports.

Willie accepted Jesus Christ in his heart and in previous years he had great joy of being a church greeter at New Covenant Church.

Willie leaves to cherish his memory, 3 children, Stacy Briggs, Larry Briggs, and Sarah Briggs. His siblings, Stella Jenkins, Roberta Gilliam, and Luberta Dehoney; 14 grandchildren, Derrick Briggs, Stacy Briggs, Jaida Briggs, Stacey Johnson, Drashawnta (Jermaine) Shears, Tonisha Briggs, Chardaya( Ugo) Igboanugo, Zachary Lamar Briggs, Laquwisha Woodson, Aries Woodson, Montral Woodson, Nathanial Wilson, Valerie Wilson, and Nicole Wilson; 34 great Grandchildren; 2 great- great grandchildren and host of nieces, nephews, friends and acquaintances.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Gertrude Briggs, his wife unto death Shirley M Briggs, his brothers, LS “June” Briggs , William Briggs; sister Clara Dean Gilbert; grandson Larry Briggs Jr.

To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Enjoy Heaven Dad.

Arrangements by D.O. McComb and Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home 8325 Covington Road Fort Wayne, IN. To sign the online guestbook go to www.mccombandsons.com