David J. Briones, M.D., 57, loving husband, father, son, brother, friend, and doctor, passed away on Saturday, August 23, 2014 in Orlando, Florida. He is survived by his wife of nearly 25 years, Diane, and sons Zachary and Nicholas, of Orlando, Florida; mother Mary Lou Briones of Las Cruces, New Mexico; sister Rebecca Dominguez of Las Cruces, New Mexico; brother John Briones and wife Yolanda of Las Cruces, New Mexico; brother Louie Briones and wife Cheryl of Phoenix, Arizona; brother Tom Briones and wife Susan of Houston, Texas; sister-in-law Debbie Murphy and husband Edward of Harleysville, Pennsylvania, father-in-law Walter Smith, of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews, professional colleagues, and friends. He is pre-deceased by his father, Joe Briones of Las Cruces, New Mexico, who was a World War II Veteran and Purple Heart recipient.
David was an Emergency Department physician for 17 years, working the past 11 years at Central Florida Regional Hospital. He was born and grew up in Las Cruces, New Mexico and graduated from New Mexico State University with a degree in Biology. He obtained his medical degree from the University of New Mexico Medical School in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and was Board Certified in Emergency Medicine. He was also a Lieutenant in the Navy where he was deployed as a Medical Officer during the First Gulf War. He is a recipient of the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with Bronze Star, Fleet Marine Force Ribbon, Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Star, and National Defense Service Medal.
David was a loving father to his sons and husband to Diane. He was an avid golfer and spent as much time as possible on the course and enjoyed playing with friends, and especially his sons. He was a lover of all kinds of music, but particularly enjoyed jazz, and his passion for music influenced his younger brothers. He was the middle son of five siblings and growing up, looked up to and his older brother John and sister Becky, and in turn, was an inspiration and role model for his younger brothers, Louie and Tom. David was a true Renaissance Man and loved to learn new things. He was knowledgeable about and interested in many subjects. He loved trivia games and stumping friends and family with questions ranging from pop culture to the obscure cultural reference. He had a wicked sense of humor, a gleeful laugh, and a quick smile for everyone. He will be fondly remembered and sorely missed.
His family would like to thank everyone for their kind thoughts and prayers, especially the family of Good Shepherd Catholic Church and School, who have been so helpful during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in David’s memory to Good Shepherd Catholic School.
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