Buford Gary Briggs

Buford Gary Briggs, 74, a resident of Bayou Vista, passed away peacefully, Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Ochsner St. Mary, surrounded by his loving family.

Buford was born, September 14, 1951, in Henderson, Texas, the son of Thurma Welch Briggs and James Bailey Briggs.

A proud veteran of the Army, Buford carried the spirit of service with him throughout his life. He was the co-owner of Bayou Plant Farm, where his dedication and hard work reflected his love for the land and community. Buford was a man of many interests. He had a love for football, proudly cheering for the Saints and LSU, filling his home with contagious enthusiasm on game days. His passions extended beyond the field; he was an avid reader, particularly fascinated by history and science. A lover of music, Buford enjoyed rock and roll, often filling the air with its sounds as he tended to his garden or relaxed in his beloved man cave.

He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years, Ann Olivier Briggs; two daughters, Melissa Briggs Canone and husband Matthew, Mariah Briggs Christie and husband Ross; bonus daughter, Claire Simmons and husband Toby, Leah Dupree and husband Aubrey; grandchildren, Maggie Canone, Marley Canone, Lochlan Christie; bonus grandchildren, Eliza Simmons, Bailey Deason, and Amber Merchant; siblings, Sherry Smith and husband July, Penny Beck, and Kenneth Briggs; sisters-in-law, Roxanne Benoit and husband Brian, Debra Merchant (Eddie) brother-in-law, Johnny Olivier and wife Prissy; nephew, Curtis Merchant and wife Sabrina; numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Buford was preceded in death by his parents, Thurma and James Briggs; three siblings, Joey, Lynn, and Karon Briggs; mother-in-law, Margaret Otto; father-in-law, Frank Otto; brothers-in-law, Lynn Otto, Richard Olivier; cousin, Jerry Wayne Deason Sr.; nephew, Jerry Wayne Deason Jr.

Keeping with Buford's wishes, he will be cremated and there will be a celebration of life held at a later date.