News Center

The Board and staff of Cape Fear Public Utility Authority mourn the passing of Board Member Hollis Briggs, Jr.

Mr. Briggs was appointed to the CFPUA Board by New Hanover County, taking his oath of office on July 10, 2019. During his term of service on the Board, Mr. Briggs was a member of several Board committees, including Long Range Planning, Sustainability, Communications, and Human Resources, which he chaired.

He was known for his interest in the well-being of CFPUA employees at all levels of the organization, and he often would stop to speak with staff when he encountered them working in the community.

Arrangements are pending.

Statements from CFPUA Board Members

CFPUA Board Chairwoman Jennifer Adams

It was a true privilege to have served alongside Hollis on the CFPUA Board for the past six years. Hollis exemplified the essence of a dedicated community servant through his involvement with the USS North Carolina, the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Celebration, and CFPUA. His words and actions consistently reflected his devotion for this area, and his positive spirit and camaraderie will be dearly missed by both myself and the entire board.

CFPUA Board Member and New Hanover County Commissioner Dane Scalise

Hollis Briggs was deeply dedicated to Wilmington and New Hanover County. Through his thoughtful leadership at CFPUA and committed service on numerous boards and committees, Hollis helped bring our community closer together. His warmth, integrity, and devotion will be greatly missed.

CFPUA Board Member and New Hanover County Commissioner Rob Zapple

It is with great sadness that I received the news of the severity of Hollis Briggs’ illness. Hollis has served our community in many capacities throughout his life and deserves our deepest gratitude for his ability to reach out and lift up those around him through hard work and kindness.

He will always be remembered for his annual work in organizing and managing the Wilmington events in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King. The wonderful MLK Parade and MLK Banquet served as a rallying cry for all of southeastern North Carolina, reminding us that we are all better when we come together and share in a day of remembrance, respect, and love.

Over the past few years, I was lucky enough to serve with Hollis on the Board of Directors for the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority and watched how he was able to influence the course of this organization, always with an eye toward the betterment of the citizens and his hometown, Wilmington.

Hollis will be missed by all.

CFPUA Board Member and Wilmington City Councilman Charlie Rivenbark

Hollis was a friend of mine years ago, and then we were lucky enough to get involved in local politics and non-profits, which enabled us to work together in a meaningful way! Hollis has a million friends and was never at a loss for words. We had been around for so long that Hollis always joked that he and I knew where all the bodies were buried. He did an exemplary job as a member of the CFPUA Board of Directors, and no one will ever forget the fact that the annual MLK Parade would not have risen to the size and impact on this community, that it has without Hollis’ drive and determination. He was a Good Man, and I will miss my friend Hollis!