John Alfred Briggs of Enfield, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at the age of 86, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy built on love, hard work, and an unwavering passion for racing.

John was one of thirteen children born to the late Henry Marriott Briggs and Maude Lassiter Briggs on August 17, 1939 in Edgecombe County. Growing up in a large family taught him the value of hard work, loyalty, and the importance of family—values he carried with him throughout his life.

John was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, caring brother, and beloved uncle. His family was his greatest treasure, and he took immense pride in watching it grow through the generations.

He never met a stranger and was known for his friendly smile, generous heart, and ability to make everyone feel welcome.

For many years, John worked as a long-distance truck driver, traveling countless miles with dedication and determination. While trucking was his profession, dirt track racing was his passion. Known to many as "Iceman," he became a respected competitor on racetracks throughout the region, earning victories at Chantilly Speedway, South Brunswick Speedway in Virginia, and numerous other dirt tracks. The roar of the engines, the competition, and the camaraderie of racing were among the greatest joys of his life.

John was preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, Betty Brazell Briggs; his sisters, Elizabeth Briggs Bullock, Ann Briggs Wrenn, and Margaret Briggs Hayes; and his brothers, Lynn, Carl, Rylan, Allen, Bill, Kemp, Joe, and Wood Briggs.

John is survived by his daughters, Kim Briggs Mann of Raleigh NC and April Vaughan McKee and her husband, Steve of Nashville NC; his son, Chris Vaughan and his wife, Cristel of Roanoke Rapids; his brother, Bob Briggs of Jackson; five grandchildren, Christina Vaughan Hebert, Allison McKee, Karly Mann, Kelly Mann, and Jaci Vaughan; five great-grandchildren, Riley Askew, Londyn Askew, Ryker Askew, Everett Hebert, Trace Hebert, and several nieces and nephew.

John will be remembered for his love of family, his legendary racing career, his tireless work ethic, and the kindness he showed to everyone he met.

Funeral services will be officiated by Rev. Randy Martin on Sunday, July 5, 2026 at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Askew Funeral and Cremation Services in Roanoke Rapids. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until service time.

 Interment will follow at Cedarwood Cemetery with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to a charity of your choice or simply spend time with those you love, just as John always did.