James Matthew Briggs

James Matthew Briggs passed away peacefully September 3, 2020 in Roy, Utah with his wife by his side.  Jim was born in Rock Springs, Wyoming on January 13, 1934 to William and Agnes Briggs.  He spent most of his childhood living on a ranch in Manila, Utah, where he learned to work and developed a love for the land.

He graduated from Green River High School and the University of Wyoming.  He later attended Utah State University in Logan, Utah where he earned his Master’s degree in Education and Administration.  While there he met his wife Barbara Lee Gerber.  They were married July 15, 1960 in the Logan Utah Temple.

 Jim and Barbara taught school in Price and Manila Utah.  In 1967, they moved to Milford, Utah where he was principal of Milford Elementary for 9 years.  They returned to Manila in 1976 where they lived for the next 40 years.  Jim served as a Daggett County Commissioner, educator, rancher, and church leader.  He was very active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  Jim’s life was one of serving - his family, his church, and his community.  He was kind, generous, and selfless. He was known for reaching out and helping those in need, even strangers.  His legacy of strong faith in our Savior, Jesus Christ, will be felt for generations.    

He is survived by his wife, Barbara, daughter Lisa, and sons Matthew (Erika) and David (Becky) Briggs and 6 grandchildren, Avery, Niel, Eryn, Mari, Aleah, and Nathan.  A daughter, Rebecca, preceded him in death.  

The family would like to thank Heritage Park Nursing Home for their love, kindness and care of Jim for the last 2½ years.

A graveside service will be held  September 12, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. at the Logan, Utah Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to Smile Train (www.smiletrain.org).