Revd Chris Briggs 1958-2022

It is with the utmost sadness that we share the news that our much-loved 'Rev', Chris Briggs, passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early hours of Wednesday 21 December 2022.

Revd Briggs joined Shiplake as the School Chaplain in September 2019, coming from Haileybury School where he had been Chaplain for 19 years. In just over three years at Shiplake, Chris had a huge impact in our school community - our assemblies, church services (in particular our wonderful Carol Service last Friday), as well as helping with CCF, co-curricular activities, minibus driving and many other aspects of school life. The many emails and kind messages received from current and former parents, pupils and staff in the last 24 hours is testament to the role that he played in so many lives.

The College community is in a state of shock and so many people will be affected by this news as Chris was an exceptional man who stood right at the heart of our school community. Chris loved our 'community' - it was the key part of what he thought was special about Shiplake. The sadness we all feel is a direct reflection of the great love and respect we had for our Rev and we will miss his wisdom, kindness, support and humour.

Chris, 64, had recently announced that he would retire at the end of this academic year and he was looking forward to moving to Norfolk with his wife, Jo, and starting their next adventure. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jo, their children Richard, Matt and Katie, and other family members as they come to terms with their loss.

With the family's permission, the College has created a tribute page at chrisbriggs.muchloved.com and invites all members of the community and anyone who knew Chris to share memories, thoughts, stories and messages (along with photos, music and videos), for his family and friends.

A full obituary, along with funeral or memorial service details, will be shared in due course.

Following a family funeral at the end of January there will be a memorial service of thanksgiving for the life and work of Revd Chris Briggs at Haileybury Chapel on Saturday 27 May 2023. Further details to follow.