Donald H. Briggs passed away on August 10th 2026, surrounded by those he loved most.

Born and raised in Millbrook, NY, on Hillaire Farm, Don’s roots in the community ran deep. He graduated from Millbrook High School and Cobleskill College, and went on to build a successful career in sales and animal nutrition, a natural path for someone who had grown up surrounded by farming and agriculture.

Don met the love of his life, Mary, soon after she arrived in New York from Ireland. He remained extremely close to his extended Irish family throughout his life and shared many happy memories visiting there.

Don believed deeply in service and in giving back to the community that had given him so much. Over the years, he served as Mayor of Millbrook, President of the Millbrook Board of Education, President of the Lions Club, and was a devoted CCD teacher, among his many other civic and community roles. He cared deeply about people and believed in showing up for his community.

But the titles and accomplishments tell only a small part of who Don was.

Above all, Don was an extraordinary father, grandfather, brother, husband and friend. He had an infectious sense of humor and a remarkably quick wit. He loved practical jokes, could find humor in almost any situation, and had a way of making everyone around him laugh. People gravitated toward him because he made them feel comfortable and welcome. Whether you had known Don for decades or had just met him, he had a way of making you feel special.

Don was an avid reader, a gifted writer and an endlessly curious person who never stopped wanting to learn. He had a particular love of history and would spend hours reading. He was a deep thinker and someone people naturally turned to for advice. He listened, he connected with people, and he was always willing to help.

He was also an incredible cook and loved nothing more than preparing a meal for family and friends and gathering the people he loved around a table.

Later in life, Don loved living by the water and cherished his years in Connecticut and South Carolina. He loved the marsh views and the beauty and tranquility of the water, but most of all, he loved the life he built there, filled with wonderful friendships and many happy memories. From his childhood home on Hillaire Farm to the places he later called home, Don had a gift for building a life around the things that mattered most to him, friendship, family and community.

Don was predeceased by his beloved wife, Mary, and his parents, Ted and Betty Briggs. He is survived by his children, Ted (Chrissy) Briggs, Shannon (Matt) Manning and Moire (David) Purcell; his grandchildren, Matthew, Emma, Jack, Caspar and Lila; and his sisters, Melanie Farrington, Laura Briggs, Marnie Christopher and Katie Briggs.

His grandchildren brought him tremendous pride and joy, and he shared a special and rare bond with each of them that they will carry with them always.

In his final months, Don's life came full circle as he returned to Tower Hill Rd, where he was born and raised, surrounded by the love, care and comfort of his sisters and brother in law, Guy, with whom he shared a special bond. Their devotion to him meant more than words can express.

Don leaves behind a lifetime of friendships and countless people whose lives are better because they knew him. In the last decade of his life especially, helping others became an important and deeply meaningful part of his life. He formed extraordinary connections with people, offering friendship, wisdom and support while receiving just as much in return. For many, knowing Don truly changed their lives.

Those of us lucky enough to have known and loved him will miss his guidance, his cooking, his practical jokes, his unmistakable wit and, most of all, simply being in his company. He was funny, wise, generous and deeply loving. He left an impression wherever he went. He was truly one of a kind.

We will miss him beyond words, and we will love him always.

Calling hours will be held at Allen Funeral Home, 3270 Franklin Ave., Millbrook, NY on Friday August 14th from 4-7pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. Joseph's Church in Millbrook, NY on Saturday, August 15th at 10am.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Don's memory may make a donation in his name to Cardinal Hayes School for Special Children to support the building of a new playground. Donations may be sent to the Development Office, PO Box CH Millbrook, NY 12545.