Tommy Briggs

James Thomas (Tommy) Briggs aka “Big Un” passed away June 9, 2025, at North Mississippi Medical Center – Tupelo at the age of 83. He was born January 26, 1942, in Wahalak, Miss. to Thomas Aaron Briggs and Helen Briggs. Tommy was raised by his Aunt Thelma Briggs McConnell (Dima) and Uncle Clifton McConnell (Uncle Pug) in Scooba, Miss. He is survived by his wife of almost 61 years, Polly Ann Briggs and their three children Tonya Gay Orman (Manuel), Melanie Smith (Brandon), and Tom Briggs (Mary Ann), his sister Mary Rigdon (Ricky), and four grandchildren, Howard Briggs McKnight, Neely Claire McKnight, Brett Thomas Briggs, and Mary Beth Briggs. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Molly Lane McKnight. 

Tommy played basketball at East Mississippi Junior College before starting his career at Magnolia Steel in Meridian. He moved his family to West Point in 1977 to work for Building Service Company, and then later he and Robert Harrell formed Harrell & Briggs Construction. Tommy ended his career as a Senior Project Manager for Yates Construction where he oversaw construction projects for several hotel resorts and casinos, the Nissan plant in Canton, and the State Capitol in Jackson before retiring. Tommy was an avid outdoorsman in his younger days, and he was known for being an outstanding cook.

At his wishes, the family is having a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial can be made to Briggs Chapel Cemetery, c/o Greg Briggs, 8385 Hwy 498 East, Porterville, MS 39352 or to the charity of choice.