Eugene Brigham

Eugene Brigham, 88 of Decatur, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, went to his rest June 29, 2021.

Gene as he was known was born June 6, 1933, in Decatur, the son of Thomas and Ethel (Wiggins) Brigham. He was a Korean and Vietnam veteran serving in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years, retiring on Dec. 1, 1972. He was a member of VFW Post 6248 in Decatur. He owned Golden Bell Antiques, was a member of the First Baptist Church of Decatur, where he played guitar in the choir. He was always doing something with his hands, including doing a stained glass cross for the church, carving wooden carousel horses and children's furniture. The most important times, however, were spent with his family.

Eugene leaves behind his loving family, which consists of his wife of 66 years, Mary Ann (Spicher) Brigham; two daughters: Lynne (Brigham) Rybarski and Jean (Brigham) Miller, both of Decatur; seven grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren, with one on the way, and many other family members and friends.

Eugene was preceded in death by a grandson, Randy Johnson Jr., and great-granddaughter, Amelia Rybarski; his parents; and two brothers: Anthony Bartholomew and Thomas Brigham Jr.

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 3, at the First Baptist Church of Decatur, where the service to honor his memory will commence at noon, with Pastor Carl Wright officiating. Burial will follow in Harrison Cemetery in Decatur, with full military rites. Memorial donations in Eugene’s name may be made to the church or Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.