Ronald "Ron" James Briggs

Ronald "Ron" James Briggs, 86, of Mountain Home, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025. Ron was born on March 4, 1939, in Corwith, Iowa, to Bernard and Henrietta (Wermersen) Briggs. He married Marianne Nurre on November 21, 1959, in Algona, Iowa. Together, they built a full and beautiful life, raising seven children and sharing over six decades of love and partnership.

Before moving to Mountain Home in 1985, Ron lived in Algona, Iowa, where he owned several small businesses (Ron & Jerry’s, R&M, Candlelite & Kastar’s Kove) and formed lasting connections throughout the community. After relocating to Arkansas, he spent 40 years driving a school bus for Mountain Home Public Schools. Generations of children rode his bus, and many remember “Mr. Ron” not just for getting them to school safely, but for greeting them with kindness, patience, and a steady presence.

A man of quiet faith, Ron was a longtime member of St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church. He loved being outdoors — whether he was working in the yard, watching birds, or simply enjoying the peace of nature. He also had a passion for woodworking and took pride in creating things with his hands. But most of all, Ron cherished time spent with his growing family. He was a devoted husband, a steady and loving dad, a proud grandpa, great grandpa and a gentle, calming force in the lives of those who knew him.

Ron is survived by his children, Laurie (Rick) Briggs Leeper of Mountain Home, AR; Shari (Dennis) Salz of Apex, NC, Suzanne "Suzie" (Chris) Hinkle of Lowell, AR, Daniel (Lisa) Briggs of Batesville, AR, Anthony "Tony" (Krista) Briggs of Independence, MO, John Briggs of Springdale, AR. He also leaves behind his siblings, Jerome Briggs, Steve (Sheree) Briggs, Bruce (Donna) Briggs, Troy (Julie) Briggs, and Linda (Craig) Briggs; sixteen grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Ron was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marianne; his son, Nicholas Briggs; his parents; and his sister, Vicki Mergen.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, when loved ones can gather to remember and honor the remarkable man Ron was — humble, dependable, and deeply loved.

Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services - Mountain Home, Arkansas. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.