Terry Briggs

Terrance Joseph "Terry" Briggs was born December 27, 1947 in Washington, MO to Ivan Briggs and Bernice (nee' Haberberger). He passed away Thursday, May 20, 2021 in St. Louis, MO at the age of 73 years. Terry grew up in Washington, MO and received his education at St. Francis Borgia Grade School and then St. Francis Borgia High School. After graduating high school, Terry proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the United State Air Force from March 29, 1968 until he was honorably discharged on June 15, 1972. Terry was united in marriage to Ardis Berghorn on August 14, 1971 at St. Peter's United Church of Christ in Washington, MO. After Terry's time in the Air Force, the couple made their home in Washington, MO and their marriage was blessed with 3 children. Terry continued his education at East Central College and then University of Missouri-St. Louis, graduating in 1975 with a bachelor's degree in accounting. Terry owned and operated Terrance J. Briggs Accounting Services in Washington, MO for many years. As an accountant and small-business owner, Terry built strong relationships with many of his clients that grew into lifelong friendships. He took pride in his work and was especially proud of his undefeated record defending his clients against the IRS. He cherished work and passionately served his clients for over 40 years. Terry was a very patriotic person and cared deeply for the country. He also loved the Washington, MO community and enjoyed many opportunities over the years to be part of various civic organizations. He was a member of Elks Lodge #1559 in Washington, MO, where he served as chairman of the Hoop Shoot Contest for many years. He held various offices with Washington Jaycees and served on the United Way Board of Directors. He was the Leader of Cub Scout Pack 811 and coached basketball, baseball, softball, and soccer. He also served as chairman of the Fifth Street Playground renovation project in Washington, MO. Terry was a longtime member of the Washington High School Athletic Association, where he initiated and chaired the first Dinner Auction fundraiser for the association. When he was not volunteering in his community, Terry enjoyed gardening and landscaping. During the Christmas season, he loved to dress up and make an appearance as Santa Claus at family Christmas parties, Emmaus Homes, Autumn Hill State School, and various community functions. Terry also enjoyed listening to music, dancing, and spending time with his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Ardis. In later years, Terry cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren and loved to take them out for ice cream. No matter what Terry did in life, he approached the task-at-hand with a positive attitude and always had an encouraging word to share with others. Even after enduring dialysis for nearly 10 years, Terry maintained his zest for life and kindness toward others. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to the nurses and staff of DaVita Dialysis in Washington, MO for always taking such great care of Terry. Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Ivan and Bernice Briggs; sister, Michelle Allemann; brother, Tom Briggs; sister-in-law, Jane Briggs; nephew, Jason Allemann; and niece, Ami Briggs. He is survived by his wife, Ardis Briggs (nee' Berghorn); two sons: Chad Briggs and wife Nichole, and Ryan Briggs and wife Rachel, both of Washington, MO; one daughter, Allyson Pegues and husband Ron of St. Louis, MO; nine grandchildren: Kaleb, Emma, Colin, Callie, Jackson, Paul and Renee Briggs, and Lorelai and Emerson Huse; sisters, Becky Herbst and husband Tom of Dutzow, MO, and Nancy Wood and husband Bill of Labadie, MO; brother, Jim Briggs and wife Christie of Washington, MO; brother-in-law, Dennis Allemann; sister-in-law, Jerene Knicker and husband Bill of Mesa, AZ; Carolyn McCoy, fiancée to the late Tom Briggs; along with nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. Funeral services were held at 11:30 AM on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at St. Peter's United Church of Christ in Washington, MO with Rev. Gary Schulte officiating. Burial with full military honors followed in the church cemetery. Memorial donations may be made in honor of Mr. Briggs to Washington Athletic Association or St. Peter's U.C.C. The Briggs family was served by Oltmann Funeral Home in Washington, MO.