Michael "Mike" Briggs

Michael Gary Briggs, 86, passed away peacefully at his home on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, on August 23, 2026.

Michael was born on August 16, 1940, to Dale and Ruth Briggs, a prominent pioneering family whose heritage was deeply intertwined with the landscape, history, and growth of Eagle River, Alaska. One of four siblings, Michael carried a lifelong pride for his Alaskan roots and the wild country he called home. He graduated from Anchorage High School, Alaska Methodist University, and Duke University’s School of Law.

Following law school, Mike married Marcia Ball and they returned to Alaska, where he began his career as an attorney. Mike also served his country in the U.S. Army as a Judge Advocate General during the Vietnam War. During their marriage, Mike and Marcia raised four children: Jeff, John, Matt (Morgan), and Joshua.

In 1989, Mike relocated to Houston, Texas, to practice utility law. A decade later, in 1999, he moved to Hilton Head Island, where he married the love of his life, Mary Cattanach. Mike and Mary brought their families together, welcoming Mary’s sons, Burke, Shaun, and Eric, into the fold.

A self-described purist and a man of few words, Mike took no shortcuts. Raised at his family's homestead in Alaska, he showed dedication and commitment to everything in his life. He worked as a carpenter and then as a clerk to put himself through law school in order to provide a grand life for his family. When once asked what advice he had for his great-grandchildren, Mike shared words that reflected how he lived his own life:

"It is always smart to be truthful in all things. Being untruthful is hard. It requires you to remember what you say or do to too many people over too much time. Love is precious. It should be reserved for those who deserve it. ‘Like’ is fine and can be spread over a greater number. Give freely of your time, treasure, and talent to those less fortunate. The rewards of doing so will become greater and more obvious as time passes. On a much more personal note, learn about the broad spectrum of what is called 'classical' music. It has and will continue to entertain and warm you long after whatever the current fad in popular music passes."

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his seven children; twelve grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren, with another blessed addition on the way. He is also survived by his brother Mark.

Mike’s time in Hilton Head was marked by his dedicated service to the community. He gave tremendous time to the Boys and Girls Club of Hilton Head Island, maintained an active membership in the Van Landingham Rotary Club, and supported both the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra and the Lean Ensemble Theater. His appreciation for classical music truly shone through his support of the local arts.

As a sports enthusiast, Mike loved playing and watching basketball and golf. However, his strongest loyalties always belonged to the Boston Red Sox and the Duke Blue Devils.

A Celebration of Mike’s Life will take place on September 19, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at The Cypress. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his honor to the Boys and Girls Club of Hilton Head Island, PO Box 22267, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926.