Obituary of E. Sylvia Briggs

E. Sylvia Briggs E. Sylvia Briggs, 90, a longtime resident of the Olympia area, passed peacefully on January 4th in the home that she and her father built. She was born on June 11, 1919 in Pawnee, OK to proud parents Marshall and Katherine Buntin. As a child she loved to spend time with her Grandparents, Uncles, Aunts and Cousins. She was a high school graduate, a wife and dedicated mother. Sylvia was a Jane of all trades. During WWII, Sylvia worked on riveting teams constructing cockpit shells for airplane bombers. She spoke of wearing her pretty clothes under her coveralls, ever a lady. She was a baker at Ralph’s Thriftway and later retired as a custodian for the State of Washington. While working full-time she also cared for her parents and managed several rental properties, performing most all maintenance work herself. Sylvia maintained a primary roll in the upbringing of her grandchildren, leading them on many adventures. They both considered her to be Mother figure and loved her immensely. Sylvia also had 4 great grandchildren whom she loved dearly. She lived a very full life, having lived in several states including Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Texas, Virginia and Washington. She remained in contact with friends and relatives near and far, often traveling to visit. It was nothing for her to drive alone to California or to the East Coast. She traveled with close friends to Europe in order to visit her daughter and grandchildren. She was a 50 year member of the Eastern Star Trinity Chapter 13. In her spare time she enjoyed cross stitch, ceramics and gardening. She was a true animal lover, especially her sweet dachshunds Toby and Buttons. She spoiled them and they made sure she was never alone. She was a force to be reckoned with. Her strength, loyalty and commitment were immeasurable. She lived life by her rules and was independence defined. She will be remembered, honored and loved always. Sylvia is survived by her daughter Anita Ann Hall, Grandson Dwayne & wife Lisa Hall, Grandchildren Kathryn Hall-Thompson, Sierra, Jay & Darren Hall, Beloved Pet Buttons and so many other friends and loved ones.