Asheville – Oscar E. Briggs, Sr. of the Emma Community passed to his heavenly home on the evening tide Wednesday, February 25, 2009.

He was born in Madison County 96 years ago. Mr. Briggs was the son of the late Latt C. Briggs and Pearl Shook Briggs. His wife of 67 years, Mildred Kuykendall Briggs, preceded him in death in 2000.

He was the proud father of five children, Earl Briggs & wife, Dr. Linda Briggs of Fletcher, Paul Briggs & wife Andrea of Greenville, SC, Fran Roberts & husband Burnace of Black Mtn, Pat Wilson & husband, the late Al Wilson of Swannanoa and Michael Briggs & wife, Rev. Lynda Briggs of Black Mtn. Papa was a loving grandfather to 10 grandchildren, Cathy McCraw & husband Barry of Hendersonville, Blaine Briggs & wife, Keila of Asheville, Norman Briggs of Fairview, Gordon Briggs of Fairview, Revonda Bradshaw & husband, Kim and Paul E. Briggs, II all of Maulden, SC, B. Walton Roberts of Burlington, Jason Wilson of Asheville, Richard Briggs & wife, Sabrina of Weaverville and Patrick Briggs & wife, Bianca of Greer, SC. He had eight great grandchildren who added much joy to his life and two great-great grandchildren.

Papa retired in 1976 from American Enka Corporation where he worked for 44 years. He was a member and Deacon at Westwood Baptist Church and attended on a regular basis. He was a member of the Improved Order of Redmon Lodge for over 75 years.

Funeral services will be held 2PM Saturday at Westwood Baptist Church, 150 Westwood Place, Asheville, NC 28806 with Rev. Greg Metcalf, Rev. Lynda Briggs and Rev. Carson Moseley officiating. Burial will follow in Pisgah View Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 PM Saturday at the church.

The family would like to acknowledge the special friendship and care given to Papa by his good neighbor, Zack Embler and Senior Companion, Bernice Rumbough.

Memorial contributions may be made to John F. Keever, Jr. Solace Center, P.O. Box 5779, Asheville, N.C. 28813.

Anders-Rice Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.