Harry M. Briggs Jr., 92, of Windham passed away July 5, 2017. He was born in Methuen, the youngest of three children to Harry Briggs Sr. and Harriett Newton Briggs. Harry graduated from Searles High School in 1942 before enlisting in the Army and serving his country with distinction in Europe during WW II.
After the war, Harry attended Boston University before joining his father at Briggs Market in Methuen. He then became the proprietor and eventual owner of Merrill's Market in downtown Methuen, known for its local delivery service, homemade sausage, and providing meals to those in need during the holidays. Harry was an avid golfer who ran the junior golf program at Indian Ridge CC in Andover and was a member for years at Vesper CC in Tyngsboro.
Harry married Catherine Newell in 1948 and together they raised three sons, Harry III, David, and Robert. He lived with his wife in Methuen until his retirement in 1988 when they moved to Windham (summer) and Hernando, FL (winter), playing golf, socializing with friends, and enjoying life. Harry will be remembered for his love of family, loyalty to his friends, and his hearty laugh.
Harry is survived by his wife Catherine Briggs of Windham, NH, son Harry Briggs III and his wife Jone Pearce of Irvine, CA, son David Briggs and his husband John McCormack of New York City, son Robert and grandchildren Victoria and Xavier Briggs of Andover, MA, sister Ruth Wilson of North Andover, MA, and half brother Jack Briggs of St. Marys, GA.
Harry was preceded in death by his beloved parents Harry and Harriet Briggs and by his brother Newton Briggs.
A memorial service will be held on October 27th at the Cochran Chapel at Phillips Academy in Andover, MA. The family asks that those so inclined may honor Harry with a donation to the American Heart Association in lieu of flowers.