What Precious Reunions Await Us In Heaven
"Jesus said... 'I AM [Myself] The Resurrection and The Life. Whoever believes in -- adheres to, trusts in, relies on and clings to -- Me, although he may die, yet he shall live.'" --John 11:25 (The Amplified Bible)
"Page Pioneer" John Michael Hiss Briles passed away in peaceful slumber on Monday night at 11:06 p.m. on October 5, 2015, at the VA Hospital in Prescott, AZ, surrounded by his best friend, Dan Zellmer, and his family, when the Lord called him into His eternal care. He had been making his home with his son, John "JB" Briles, beside the golf course in Kingman, Arizona.
Johnny was a baby in Redondo Beach, California, when his mother left his father. Bud Briles was the only father John knew and loved until he applied for his driver's license in Page and learned about his biological father, Joe Hiss, who he visited before Joe died.
Johnny graduated from Page High School in 1961, voted as the "Wittiest Senior Boy". He moved to Page with his mother and stepfather, Pat & Bud Briles, and their children, his siblings, Lorin '65, Danny '69, Rob '74, and Kathy Briles '76.
He joined the Army after graduation in 1961 with Bob Patterson '61, on the "Buddy" Program, but they didn't see much of each other after the cute picture was taken of them together in their Army Bermuda Shorts shortly after induction. (I haven't been able to find that picture...)
The Summer of 1960, on the way home to Page, Arizona from Flagstaff where they had all attended a Babbitt's company picnic, John kept his Guardian Angels busy saving his life and the lives of his classmates, Mary Kay Lundblade '63, Rick Parsons '61, Mike Stickler '61, Jeanne Roberson '62 (who was critically injured but survived), and the future husband of Judy McDonald '62 -- Cecil Mowbray (the driver of the car), when Cecil's car, at a high rate of speed, hit an oil slick during a light rain and flew off the road, hitting a tree which was sheared off by the impact. Rick Parsons and Mike Stickler were in the front seat; Johnny was in the back seat with Mary Kay and Jeanne Roberson. Johnny broke his left arm in the accident.
After returning from the Army, he spent most of his remaining life in Arizona, where he quickly was given the nickname, "Hollywood", due to his good looks, charm and dancing skills. He easily could sweep anyone off their feet with his kind heart and great wit.
John always excelled in all sports including golf, bowling and Prescott Senior Softball.
John had received a miracle operation from the Lord that saved his life some years ago, and he made it a point to share his testimony from the podium in his brother, Pastor Danny Briles', Assembly of God Church and with anyone else, one-on-one, who would listen to make sure God got all the glory. He had been praying for his miracle, so when the surgeon was having him wheeled in for the operation, he asked John what influential person (on earth) he knew to get this expensive operation approved by the Veterans Administration. Johnny said, "I went a little Higher Up than that!"
His sister, Lindia, said, "John always told me that he ran on 'Irish Time'. LOL! He would say, 'I will call you tomorrow,' then I wouldn't hear a word for a week. In fact, when he flew into Midland, MI, for our first meeting, we were at the airport to meet him, and I fully expected him to have missed the plane. He was the last one to get off and had on a bright pink shirt. I couldn't have missed him. LOL! I think he had told everyone on the plane where he was headed and why! That is a day that I will remember forever! He was certainly one of a kind, and knowing him changed my life forever."
John was survived by his beloved Saundra of 28 years; his three sons with Karyn: Joseph "Joey", John "JB" & Joshua "Josh" Briles, (and their maternal step-brother, Shawn Savage); his "adopted" (from age 2-4) daughter by Saundra & Cullen: Priscilla Carmody of whom John said many times, "This is the daughter I wish I would have had"; "Grampy's" grandchildren: Joey's Jade (adopted from India), Chance and Jackson; JB's Justin, Summer, and Spencer; and Josh's Kynslee and Kyndee, plus two with his first wife; John's older sister, Lindia (Hiss) Hudgins '58 of Doniphan, MO (John and Lindia had been separated for 46 years, but were reunited in Michigan in 1992); his half-siblings (who never knew John as anything but their "full" brother, especially since they were raised together): Pastor Danny Briles '69 of Kingman and Robert "Rob" Briles '73 of Chino Valley, Arizona; and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
He was predeceased by his parents, Keitha "Pat" (O'Brien) Briles & Joe Hiss; step-parents, Dad Lorin "Bud" Briles & Loretta Hiss; his sister, Joanne Marie Hiss; his half-brother, Lorin Briles '65, and his half-sister, Kathy Briles '76.
John's son, Joey Briles posted on Facebook on October 31, 2015:
It is with deep sadness, and heavy hearts that we announce the death of John Michael Briles. Page, Kingman, Phoenix and Prescott are where he spent most of his life. John never met a stranger. Everyone he met became his instant friend. This was his most amazing gift in life. John loved sports. Softball, bowling and golf were his favorites. His kindness and gratuitous nature will be missed in this world, but will never be forgotten.
John is survived by his sons, Joey, JB, and Josh, stepdaughter Priscilla, 12 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, sister Lindia, brothers Dan and Rob plus many, many friends that he always considered family.
This version was provided by John's long-time girlfriend, Saundra, after I sent the first obituary to John's PHS classmates:
"He is survived by his beloved Saundra of 28 years. John was the best caring and loving big brother to Dan, Lorin, Robbie, Kathy and Lindia; and a wonderful father to his sons and cherished daughter, Joey, JB, Josh, Cullen and Priscilla. Grampy absolutely adored, and was so very much loved, by his 14 grandchildren and one great grandson.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the Prescott VA Hospice unit for all the compassionate and comforting care they extended to our "Johnny Boy".
John will be greatly missed by every life he has ever touched. A true kind man of God, he brought a smile to everyone with whom he came in contact. He will be deeply missed. Make yourself familiar with this Angel, and behold him frequently in spirit; for without being seen, he is present with you."
To help with the differing accounts: John has three biological sons, Joey, JB & Josh; Saundra's children he helped to raise are Priscilla & Cullen; and he either has 12 or 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
John's brother, Rob Briles wrote:
"My Brother John was truly a Loving and remarkable human being. HE would not only give you the shirt off his back, HE would take you to town and buy you another so now you had two. HE would make sure your belly was full then throw you a few bucks just to know HE lifted you and gave you enough dignity so as to not lose or give up on a fellow human being. I WITNESSED this one time and then asked him "who was that?" He said it was a stranger he did not know but hoped he could have enlightened his life if it was only for that day. Holding back tears of pride for MY BIG BROTHER; his actions left me in awe. I know this same scenario repeated itself many times because many people would come up to me, introduce themselves, then finish by saving, "If it hadn't been for your Brother John ???????? To this day and my whole life I NEVER heard anybody say anything bad or speak negative of the MAN I was blessed my whole life to call MY BIG BROTHER....I Love and Will Miss Him."
"After losing yet another family member, my oldest brother, John, it's made me stop and think and realize how fast time goes by. I was fortunate, like other family and other loved ones, to be by his bed, to say our Goodbyes, and share the last of a Beautiful Arizona sunset and quiet evening. As he passed, I thought of all the advice that this mentor of a brother had given me--the two that I have carried because of him teaching me is Truth and Love. He Taught Me Well! Looking back, the times I got into the most trouble is when I disregarded his advice over my own...R.I.P., John, from all you GAVE! You are Loved."
The mother of John's three sons wrote:
Karyn Savage - "John Briles passed away during the night. He was a kind man with a very big heart and was loved by many. My heart aches for my sons, Joey, JB, and Josh, as they grieve the loss of their Dad. Rest in Peace, my friend, we all will miss you."
"Thank you everyone for your kind words and thoughts. John has no more pain. The last few years have been tough ones for him. John believed in God and was looking forward to going to Heaven. The last time I talked to him, he told me goodbye, thanked me for being the best Mom to his boys, and not to be sad, he would see me in Heaven. John and I were married ten years and had three incredible boys, who turned into incredible men and fathers. John and I have always remained friends and always TRIED to put the boys first. Rest in Peace, my friend; you will be missed by so many -- I think more than you even imagined."
John's niece, Kathy's daughter, Linette Paciolla, wrote:
"This picture of my Uncle John is so adorable (Little Cowboy). I always think about him around Halloween time because one year when I was around 12 I got to spend Halloween with him. He wanted to hand out candy to the trick or treaters; he had this window that slid open in the front door, and it was just big enough to get your hand through; I remember as the kids got to the window, he stuck his hand out that window and yelled, and the kids jumped, LOL; it was pretty funny. I always remember him making everything so much fun, and he always wanted everyone to just have a good time. He will be missed very much. I love you, Uncle John ❤. Thinking of my cousins Joey, JB, and Josh. Sending lots of love and prayers to you."
John donated his remains to science in the name of all "Downwinders"; then cremation took place.
His ashes have been returned to his family, and there will be a service and memorial on November 14, 2015, 1:00 p.m, at First Assembly of God, 1850 Gates Ave, Kingman, AZ, with a celebration of life to follow.
His brother, Danny, who is Pastor of the church, told John's son, JB, that he would talk to the church and see if they could do a live feed of the service, which they did, but it wasn't recorded.
"Jesus said... 'I AM [Myself] The Resurrection and The Life. Whoever believes in -- adheres to, trusts in, relies on and clings to -- Me, although he may die, yet he shall live.'" --John 11:25 (The Amplified Bible)
"Page Pioneer" John Michael Hiss Briles passed away in peaceful slumber on Monday night at 11:06 p.m. on October 5, 2015, at the VA Hospital in Prescott, AZ, surrounded by his best friend, Dan Zellmer, and his family, when the Lord called him into His eternal care. He had been making his home with his son, John "JB" Briles, beside the golf course in Kingman, Arizona.
Johnny was a baby in Redondo Beach, California, when his mother left his father. Bud Briles was the only father John knew and loved until he applied for his driver's license in Page and learned about his biological father, Joe Hiss, who he visited before Joe died.
Johnny graduated from Page High School in 1961, voted as the "Wittiest Senior Boy". He moved to Page with his mother and stepfather, Pat & Bud Briles, and their children, his siblings, Lorin '65, Danny '69, Rob '74, and Kathy Briles '76.
He joined the Army after graduation in 1961 with Bob Patterson '61, on the "Buddy" Program, but they didn't see much of each other after the cute picture was taken of them together in their Army Bermuda Shorts shortly after induction. (I haven't been able to find that picture...)
The Summer of 1960, on the way home to Page, Arizona from Flagstaff where they had all attended a Babbitt's company picnic, John kept his Guardian Angels busy saving his life and the lives of his classmates, Mary Kay Lundblade '63, Rick Parsons '61, Mike Stickler '61, Jeanne Roberson '62 (who was critically injured but survived), and the future husband of Judy McDonald '62 -- Cecil Mowbray (the driver of the car), when Cecil's car, at a high rate of speed, hit an oil slick during a light rain and flew off the road, hitting a tree which was sheared off by the impact. Rick Parsons and Mike Stickler were in the front seat; Johnny was in the back seat with Mary Kay and Jeanne Roberson. Johnny broke his left arm in the accident.
After returning from the Army, he spent most of his remaining life in Arizona, where he quickly was given the nickname, "Hollywood", due to his good looks, charm and dancing skills. He easily could sweep anyone off their feet with his kind heart and great wit.
John always excelled in all sports including golf, bowling and Prescott Senior Softball.
John had received a miracle operation from the Lord that saved his life some years ago, and he made it a point to share his testimony from the podium in his brother, Pastor Danny Briles', Assembly of God Church and with anyone else, one-on-one, who would listen to make sure God got all the glory. He had been praying for his miracle, so when the surgeon was having him wheeled in for the operation, he asked John what influential person (on earth) he knew to get this expensive operation approved by the Veterans Administration. Johnny said, "I went a little Higher Up than that!"
His sister, Lindia, said, "John always told me that he ran on 'Irish Time'. LOL! He would say, 'I will call you tomorrow,' then I wouldn't hear a word for a week. In fact, when he flew into Midland, MI, for our first meeting, we were at the airport to meet him, and I fully expected him to have missed the plane. He was the last one to get off and had on a bright pink shirt. I couldn't have missed him. LOL! I think he had told everyone on the plane where he was headed and why! That is a day that I will remember forever! He was certainly one of a kind, and knowing him changed my life forever."
John was survived by his beloved Saundra of 28 years; his three sons with Karyn: Joseph "Joey", John "JB" & Joshua "Josh" Briles, (and their maternal step-brother, Shawn Savage); his "adopted" (from age 2-4) daughter by Saundra & Cullen: Priscilla Carmody of whom John said many times, "This is the daughter I wish I would have had"; "Grampy's" grandchildren: Joey's Jade (adopted from India), Chance and Jackson; JB's Justin, Summer, and Spencer; and Josh's Kynslee and Kyndee, plus two with his first wife; John's older sister, Lindia (Hiss) Hudgins '58 of Doniphan, MO (John and Lindia had been separated for 46 years, but were reunited in Michigan in 1992); his half-siblings (who never knew John as anything but their "full" brother, especially since they were raised together): Pastor Danny Briles '69 of Kingman and Robert "Rob" Briles '73 of Chino Valley, Arizona; and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
He was predeceased by his parents, Keitha "Pat" (O'Brien) Briles & Joe Hiss; step-parents, Dad Lorin "Bud" Briles & Loretta Hiss; his sister, Joanne Marie Hiss; his half-brother, Lorin Briles '65, and his half-sister, Kathy Briles '76.
John's son, Joey Briles posted on Facebook on October 31, 2015:
It is with deep sadness, and heavy hearts that we announce the death of John Michael Briles. Page, Kingman, Phoenix and Prescott are where he spent most of his life. John never met a stranger. Everyone he met became his instant friend. This was his most amazing gift in life. John loved sports. Softball, bowling and golf were his favorites. His kindness and gratuitous nature will be missed in this world, but will never be forgotten.
John is survived by his sons, Joey, JB, and Josh, stepdaughter Priscilla, 12 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, sister Lindia, brothers Dan and Rob plus many, many friends that he always considered family.
This version was provided by John's long-time girlfriend, Saundra, after I sent the first obituary to John's PHS classmates:
"He is survived by his beloved Saundra of 28 years. John was the best caring and loving big brother to Dan, Lorin, Robbie, Kathy and Lindia; and a wonderful father to his sons and cherished daughter, Joey, JB, Josh, Cullen and Priscilla. Grampy absolutely adored, and was so very much loved, by his 14 grandchildren and one great grandson.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the Prescott VA Hospice unit for all the compassionate and comforting care they extended to our "Johnny Boy".
John will be greatly missed by every life he has ever touched. A true kind man of God, he brought a smile to everyone with whom he came in contact. He will be deeply missed. Make yourself familiar with this Angel, and behold him frequently in spirit; for without being seen, he is present with you."
To help with the differing accounts: John has three biological sons, Joey, JB & Josh; Saundra's children he helped to raise are Priscilla & Cullen; and he either has 12 or 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
John's brother, Rob Briles wrote:
"My Brother John was truly a Loving and remarkable human being. HE would not only give you the shirt off his back, HE would take you to town and buy you another so now you had two. HE would make sure your belly was full then throw you a few bucks just to know HE lifted you and gave you enough dignity so as to not lose or give up on a fellow human being. I WITNESSED this one time and then asked him "who was that?" He said it was a stranger he did not know but hoped he could have enlightened his life if it was only for that day. Holding back tears of pride for MY BIG BROTHER; his actions left me in awe. I know this same scenario repeated itself many times because many people would come up to me, introduce themselves, then finish by saving, "If it hadn't been for your Brother John ???????? To this day and my whole life I NEVER heard anybody say anything bad or speak negative of the MAN I was blessed my whole life to call MY BIG BROTHER....I Love and Will Miss Him."
"After losing yet another family member, my oldest brother, John, it's made me stop and think and realize how fast time goes by. I was fortunate, like other family and other loved ones, to be by his bed, to say our Goodbyes, and share the last of a Beautiful Arizona sunset and quiet evening. As he passed, I thought of all the advice that this mentor of a brother had given me--the two that I have carried because of him teaching me is Truth and Love. He Taught Me Well! Looking back, the times I got into the most trouble is when I disregarded his advice over my own...R.I.P., John, from all you GAVE! You are Loved."
The mother of John's three sons wrote:
Karyn Savage - "John Briles passed away during the night. He was a kind man with a very big heart and was loved by many. My heart aches for my sons, Joey, JB, and Josh, as they grieve the loss of their Dad. Rest in Peace, my friend, we all will miss you."
"Thank you everyone for your kind words and thoughts. John has no more pain. The last few years have been tough ones for him. John believed in God and was looking forward to going to Heaven. The last time I talked to him, he told me goodbye, thanked me for being the best Mom to his boys, and not to be sad, he would see me in Heaven. John and I were married ten years and had three incredible boys, who turned into incredible men and fathers. John and I have always remained friends and always TRIED to put the boys first. Rest in Peace, my friend; you will be missed by so many -- I think more than you even imagined."
John's niece, Kathy's daughter, Linette Paciolla, wrote:
"This picture of my Uncle John is so adorable (Little Cowboy). I always think about him around Halloween time because one year when I was around 12 I got to spend Halloween with him. He wanted to hand out candy to the trick or treaters; he had this window that slid open in the front door, and it was just big enough to get your hand through; I remember as the kids got to the window, he stuck his hand out that window and yelled, and the kids jumped, LOL; it was pretty funny. I always remember him making everything so much fun, and he always wanted everyone to just have a good time. He will be missed very much. I love you, Uncle John ❤. Thinking of my cousins Joey, JB, and Josh. Sending lots of love and prayers to you."
John donated his remains to science in the name of all "Downwinders"; then cremation took place.
His ashes have been returned to his family, and there will be a service and memorial on November 14, 2015, 1:00 p.m, at First Assembly of God, 1850 Gates Ave, Kingman, AZ, with a celebration of life to follow.
His brother, Danny, who is Pastor of the church, told John's son, JB, that he would talk to the church and see if they could do a live feed of the service, which they did, but it wasn't recorded.
What Precious Reunions Await Us In Heaven
"Jesus said... 'I AM [Myself] The Resurrection and The Life. Whoever believes in -- adheres to, trusts in, relies on and clings to -- Me, although he may die, yet he shall live.'" --John 11:25 (The Amplified Bible)
"Page Pioneer" John Michael Hiss Briles passed away in peaceful slumber on Monday night at 11:06 p.m. on October 5, 2015, at the VA Hospital in Prescott, AZ, surrounded by his best friend, Dan Zellmer, and his family, when the Lord called him into His eternal care. He had been making his home with his son, John "JB" Briles, beside the golf course in Kingman, Arizona.
Johnny was a baby in Redondo Beach, California, when his mother left his father. Bud Briles was the only father John knew and loved until he applied for his driver's license in Page and learned about his biological father, Joe Hiss, who he visited before Joe died.
Johnny graduated from Page High School in 1961, voted as the "Wittiest Senior Boy". He moved to Page with his mother and stepfather, Pat & Bud Briles, and their children, his siblings, Lorin '65, Danny '69, Rob '74, and Kathy Briles '76.
He joined the Army after graduation in 1961 with Bob Patterson '61, on the "Buddy" Program, but they didn't see much of each other after the cute picture was taken of them together in their Army Bermuda Shorts shortly after induction. (I haven't been able to find that picture...)
The Summer of 1960, on the way home to Page, Arizona from Flagstaff where they had all attended a Babbitt's company picnic, John kept his Guardian Angels busy saving his life and the lives of his classmates, Mary Kay Lundblade '63, Rick Parsons '61, Mike Stickler '61, Jeanne Roberson '62 (who was critically injured but survived), and the future husband of Judy McDonald '62 -- Cecil Mowbray (the driver of the car), when Cecil's car, at a high rate of speed, hit an oil slick during a light rain and flew off the road, hitting a tree which was sheared off by the impact. Rick Parsons and Mike Stickler were in the front seat; Johnny was in the back seat with Mary Kay and Jeanne Roberson. Johnny broke his left arm in the accident.
After returning from the Army, he spent most of his remaining life in Arizona, where he quickly was given the nickname, "Hollywood", due to his good looks, charm and dancing skills. He easily could sweep anyone off their feet with his kind heart and great wit.
John always excelled in all sports including golf, bowling and Prescott Senior Softball.
John had received a miracle operation from the Lord that saved his life some years ago, and he made it a point to share his testimony from the podium in his brother, Pastor Danny Briles', Assembly of God Church and with anyone else, one-on-one, who would listen to make sure God got all the glory. He had been praying for his miracle, so when the surgeon was having him wheeled in for the operation, he asked John what influential person (on earth) he knew to get this expensive operation approved by the Veterans Administration. Johnny said, "I went a little Higher Up than that!"
His sister, Lindia, said, "John always told me that he ran on 'Irish Time'. LOL! He would say, 'I will call you tomorrow,' then I wouldn't hear a word for a week. In fact, when he flew into Midland, MI, for our first meeting, we were at the airport to meet him, and I fully expected him to have missed the plane. He was the last one to get off and had on a bright pink shirt. I couldn't have missed him. LOL! I think he had told everyone on the plane where he was headed and why! That is a day that I will remember forever! He was certainly one of a kind, and knowing him changed my life forever."
John was survived by his beloved Saundra of 28 years; his three sons with Karyn: Joseph "Joey", John "JB" & Joshua "Josh" Briles, (and their maternal step-brother, Shawn Savage); his "adopted" (from age 2-4) daughter by Saundra & Cullen: Priscilla Carmody of whom John said many times, "This is the daughter I wish I would have had"; "Grampy's" grandchildren: Joey's Jade (adopted from India), Chance and Jackson; JB's Justin, Summer, and Spencer; and Josh's Kynslee and Kyndee, plus two with his first wife; John's older sister, Lindia (Hiss) Hudgins '58 of Doniphan, MO (John and Lindia had been separated for 46 years, but were reunited in Michigan in 1992); his half-siblings (who never knew John as anything but their "full" brother, especially since they were raised together): Pastor Danny Briles '69 of Kingman and Robert "Rob" Briles '73 of Chino Valley, Arizona; and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
He was predeceased by his parents, Keitha "Pat" (O'Brien) Briles & Joe Hiss; step-parents, Dad Lorin "Bud" Briles & Loretta Hiss; his sister, Joanne Marie Hiss; his half-brother, Lorin Briles '65, and his half-sister, Kathy Briles '76.
John's son, Joey Briles posted on Facebook on October 31, 2015:
It is with deep sadness, and heavy hearts that we announce the death of John Michael Briles. Page, Kingman, Phoenix and Prescott are where he spent most of his life. John never met a stranger. Everyone he met became his instant friend. This was his most amazing gift in life. John loved sports. Softball, bowling and golf were his favorites. His kindness and gratuitous nature will be missed in this world, but will never be forgotten.
John is survived by his sons, Joey, JB, and Josh, stepdaughter Priscilla, 12 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, sister Lindia, brothers Dan and Rob plus many, many friends that he always considered family.
This version was provided by John's long-time girlfriend, Saundra, after I sent the first obituary to John's PHS classmates:
"He is survived by his beloved Saundra of 28 years. John was the best caring and loving big brother to Dan, Lorin, Robbie, Kathy and Lindia; and a wonderful father to his sons and cherished daughter, Joey, JB, Josh, Cullen and Priscilla. Grampy absolutely adored, and was so very much loved, by his 14 grandchildren and one great grandson.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the Prescott VA Hospice unit for all the compassionate and comforting care they extended to our "Johnny Boy".
John will be greatly missed by every life he has ever touched. A true kind man of God, he brought a smile to everyone with whom he came in contact. He will be deeply missed. Make yourself familiar with this Angel, and behold him frequently in spirit; for without being seen, he is present with you."
To help with the differing accounts: John has three biological sons, Joey, JB & Josh; Saundra's children he helped to raise are Priscilla & Cullen; and he either has 12 or 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
John's brother, Rob Briles wrote:
"My Brother John was truly a Loving and remarkable human being. HE would not only give you the shirt off his back, HE would take you to town and buy you another so now you had two. HE would make sure your belly was full then throw you a few bucks just to know HE lifted you and gave you enough dignity so as to not lose or give up on a fellow human being. I WITNESSED this one time and then asked him "who was that?" He said it was a stranger he did not know but hoped he could have enlightened his life if it was only for that day. Holding back tears of pride for MY BIG BROTHER; his actions left me in awe. I know this same scenario repeated itself many times because many people would come up to me, introduce themselves, then finish by saving, "If it hadn't been for your Brother John ???????? To this day and my whole life I NEVER heard anybody say anything bad or speak negative of the MAN I was blessed my whole life to call MY BIG BROTHER....I Love and Will Miss Him."
"After losing yet another family member, my oldest brother, John, it's made me stop and think and realize how fast time goes by. I was fortunate, like other family and other loved ones, to be by his bed, to say our Goodbyes, and share the last of a Beautiful Arizona sunset and quiet evening. As he passed, I thought of all the advice that this mentor of a brother had given me--the two that I have carried because of him teaching me is Truth and Love. He Taught Me Well! Looking back, the times I got into the most trouble is when I disregarded his advice over my own...R.I.P., John, from all you GAVE! You are Loved."
The mother of John's three sons wrote:
Karyn Savage - "John Briles passed away during the night. He was a kind man with a very big heart and was loved by many. My heart aches for my sons, Joey, JB, and Josh, as they grieve the loss of their Dad. Rest in Peace, my friend, we all will miss you."
"Thank you everyone for your kind words and thoughts. John has no more pain. The last few years have been tough ones for him. John believed in God and was looking forward to going to Heaven. The last time I talked to him, he told me goodbye, thanked me for being the best Mom to his boys, and not to be sad, he would see me in Heaven. John and I were married ten years and had three incredible boys, who turned into incredible men and fathers. John and I have always remained friends and always TRIED to put the boys first. Rest in Peace, my friend; you will be missed by so many -- I think more than you even imagined."
John's niece, Kathy's daughter, Linette Paciolla, wrote:
"This picture of my Uncle John is so adorable (Little Cowboy). I always think about him around Halloween time because one year when I was around 12 I got to spend Halloween with him. He wanted to hand out candy to the trick or treaters; he had this window that slid open in the front door, and it was just big enough to get your hand through; I remember as the kids got to the window, he stuck his hand out that window and yelled, and the kids jumped, LOL; it was pretty funny. I always remember him making everything so much fun, and he always wanted everyone to just have a good time. He will be missed very much. I love you, Uncle John ❤. Thinking of my cousins Joey, JB, and Josh. Sending lots of love and prayers to you."
John donated his remains to science in the name of all "Downwinders"; then cremation took place.
His ashes have been returned to his family, and there will be a service and memorial on November 14, 2015, 1:00 p.m, at First Assembly of God, 1850 Gates Ave, Kingman, AZ, with a celebration of life to follow.
His brother, Danny, who is Pastor of the church, told John's son, JB, that he would talk to the church and see if they could do a live feed of the service, which they did, but it wasn't recorded.
"Jesus said... 'I AM [Myself] The Resurrection and The Life. Whoever believes in -- adheres to, trusts in, relies on and clings to -- Me, although he may die, yet he shall live.'" --John 11:25 (The Amplified Bible)
"Page Pioneer" John Michael Hiss Briles passed away in peaceful slumber on Monday night at 11:06 p.m. on October 5, 2015, at the VA Hospital in Prescott, AZ, surrounded by his best friend, Dan Zellmer, and his family, when the Lord called him into His eternal care. He had been making his home with his son, John "JB" Briles, beside the golf course in Kingman, Arizona.
Johnny was a baby in Redondo Beach, California, when his mother left his father. Bud Briles was the only father John knew and loved until he applied for his driver's license in Page and learned about his biological father, Joe Hiss, who he visited before Joe died.
Johnny graduated from Page High School in 1961, voted as the "Wittiest Senior Boy". He moved to Page with his mother and stepfather, Pat & Bud Briles, and their children, his siblings, Lorin '65, Danny '69, Rob '74, and Kathy Briles '76.
He joined the Army after graduation in 1961 with Bob Patterson '61, on the "Buddy" Program, but they didn't see much of each other after the cute picture was taken of them together in their Army Bermuda Shorts shortly after induction. (I haven't been able to find that picture...)
The Summer of 1960, on the way home to Page, Arizona from Flagstaff where they had all attended a Babbitt's company picnic, John kept his Guardian Angels busy saving his life and the lives of his classmates, Mary Kay Lundblade '63, Rick Parsons '61, Mike Stickler '61, Jeanne Roberson '62 (who was critically injured but survived), and the future husband of Judy McDonald '62 -- Cecil Mowbray (the driver of the car), when Cecil's car, at a high rate of speed, hit an oil slick during a light rain and flew off the road, hitting a tree which was sheared off by the impact. Rick Parsons and Mike Stickler were in the front seat; Johnny was in the back seat with Mary Kay and Jeanne Roberson. Johnny broke his left arm in the accident.
After returning from the Army, he spent most of his remaining life in Arizona, where he quickly was given the nickname, "Hollywood", due to his good looks, charm and dancing skills. He easily could sweep anyone off their feet with his kind heart and great wit.
John always excelled in all sports including golf, bowling and Prescott Senior Softball.
John had received a miracle operation from the Lord that saved his life some years ago, and he made it a point to share his testimony from the podium in his brother, Pastor Danny Briles', Assembly of God Church and with anyone else, one-on-one, who would listen to make sure God got all the glory. He had been praying for his miracle, so when the surgeon was having him wheeled in for the operation, he asked John what influential person (on earth) he knew to get this expensive operation approved by the Veterans Administration. Johnny said, "I went a little Higher Up than that!"
His sister, Lindia, said, "John always told me that he ran on 'Irish Time'. LOL! He would say, 'I will call you tomorrow,' then I wouldn't hear a word for a week. In fact, when he flew into Midland, MI, for our first meeting, we were at the airport to meet him, and I fully expected him to have missed the plane. He was the last one to get off and had on a bright pink shirt. I couldn't have missed him. LOL! I think he had told everyone on the plane where he was headed and why! That is a day that I will remember forever! He was certainly one of a kind, and knowing him changed my life forever."
John was survived by his beloved Saundra of 28 years; his three sons with Karyn: Joseph "Joey", John "JB" & Joshua "Josh" Briles, (and their maternal step-brother, Shawn Savage); his "adopted" (from age 2-4) daughter by Saundra & Cullen: Priscilla Carmody of whom John said many times, "This is the daughter I wish I would have had"; "Grampy's" grandchildren: Joey's Jade (adopted from India), Chance and Jackson; JB's Justin, Summer, and Spencer; and Josh's Kynslee and Kyndee, plus two with his first wife; John's older sister, Lindia (Hiss) Hudgins '58 of Doniphan, MO (John and Lindia had been separated for 46 years, but were reunited in Michigan in 1992); his half-siblings (who never knew John as anything but their "full" brother, especially since they were raised together): Pastor Danny Briles '69 of Kingman and Robert "Rob" Briles '73 of Chino Valley, Arizona; and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
He was predeceased by his parents, Keitha "Pat" (O'Brien) Briles & Joe Hiss; step-parents, Dad Lorin "Bud" Briles & Loretta Hiss; his sister, Joanne Marie Hiss; his half-brother, Lorin Briles '65, and his half-sister, Kathy Briles '76.
John's son, Joey Briles posted on Facebook on October 31, 2015:
It is with deep sadness, and heavy hearts that we announce the death of John Michael Briles. Page, Kingman, Phoenix and Prescott are where he spent most of his life. John never met a stranger. Everyone he met became his instant friend. This was his most amazing gift in life. John loved sports. Softball, bowling and golf were his favorites. His kindness and gratuitous nature will be missed in this world, but will never be forgotten.
John is survived by his sons, Joey, JB, and Josh, stepdaughter Priscilla, 12 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, sister Lindia, brothers Dan and Rob plus many, many friends that he always considered family.
This version was provided by John's long-time girlfriend, Saundra, after I sent the first obituary to John's PHS classmates:
"He is survived by his beloved Saundra of 28 years. John was the best caring and loving big brother to Dan, Lorin, Robbie, Kathy and Lindia; and a wonderful father to his sons and cherished daughter, Joey, JB, Josh, Cullen and Priscilla. Grampy absolutely adored, and was so very much loved, by his 14 grandchildren and one great grandson.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the Prescott VA Hospice unit for all the compassionate and comforting care they extended to our "Johnny Boy".
John will be greatly missed by every life he has ever touched. A true kind man of God, he brought a smile to everyone with whom he came in contact. He will be deeply missed. Make yourself familiar with this Angel, and behold him frequently in spirit; for without being seen, he is present with you."
To help with the differing accounts: John has three biological sons, Joey, JB & Josh; Saundra's children he helped to raise are Priscilla & Cullen; and he either has 12 or 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
John's brother, Rob Briles wrote:
"My Brother John was truly a Loving and remarkable human being. HE would not only give you the shirt off his back, HE would take you to town and buy you another so now you had two. HE would make sure your belly was full then throw you a few bucks just to know HE lifted you and gave you enough dignity so as to not lose or give up on a fellow human being. I WITNESSED this one time and then asked him "who was that?" He said it was a stranger he did not know but hoped he could have enlightened his life if it was only for that day. Holding back tears of pride for MY BIG BROTHER; his actions left me in awe. I know this same scenario repeated itself many times because many people would come up to me, introduce themselves, then finish by saving, "If it hadn't been for your Brother John ???????? To this day and my whole life I NEVER heard anybody say anything bad or speak negative of the MAN I was blessed my whole life to call MY BIG BROTHER....I Love and Will Miss Him."
"After losing yet another family member, my oldest brother, John, it's made me stop and think and realize how fast time goes by. I was fortunate, like other family and other loved ones, to be by his bed, to say our Goodbyes, and share the last of a Beautiful Arizona sunset and quiet evening. As he passed, I thought of all the advice that this mentor of a brother had given me--the two that I have carried because of him teaching me is Truth and Love. He Taught Me Well! Looking back, the times I got into the most trouble is when I disregarded his advice over my own...R.I.P., John, from all you GAVE! You are Loved."
The mother of John's three sons wrote:
Karyn Savage - "John Briles passed away during the night. He was a kind man with a very big heart and was loved by many. My heart aches for my sons, Joey, JB, and Josh, as they grieve the loss of their Dad. Rest in Peace, my friend, we all will miss you."
"Thank you everyone for your kind words and thoughts. John has no more pain. The last few years have been tough ones for him. John believed in God and was looking forward to going to Heaven. The last time I talked to him, he told me goodbye, thanked me for being the best Mom to his boys, and not to be sad, he would see me in Heaven. John and I were married ten years and had three incredible boys, who turned into incredible men and fathers. John and I have always remained friends and always TRIED to put the boys first. Rest in Peace, my friend; you will be missed by so many -- I think more than you even imagined."
John's niece, Kathy's daughter, Linette Paciolla, wrote:
"This picture of my Uncle John is so adorable (Little Cowboy). I always think about him around Halloween time because one year when I was around 12 I got to spend Halloween with him. He wanted to hand out candy to the trick or treaters; he had this window that slid open in the front door, and it was just big enough to get your hand through; I remember as the kids got to the window, he stuck his hand out that window and yelled, and the kids jumped, LOL; it was pretty funny. I always remember him making everything so much fun, and he always wanted everyone to just have a good time. He will be missed very much. I love you, Uncle John ❤. Thinking of my cousins Joey, JB, and Josh. Sending lots of love and prayers to you."
John donated his remains to science in the name of all "Downwinders"; then cremation took place.
His ashes have been returned to his family, and there will be a service and memorial on November 14, 2015, 1:00 p.m, at First Assembly of God, 1850 Gates Ave, Kingman, AZ, with a celebration of life to follow.
His brother, Danny, who is Pastor of the church, told John's son, JB, that he would talk to the church and see if they could do a live feed of the service, which they did, but it wasn't recorded.
