Victor Briley

Victor Lavon Briley, 62, died on Sunday, May 10 at his home, as he wished, after a 3-year battle with cancer.  He was born in Nacogdoches on March 23, 1958 and spent many years of his youth involved in the Nacogdoches baseball program as well as surrounding areas.  His talent on the mound, especially his menacing curveball, became the topic of endless baseball memories that will extend far beyond Vic’s lifetime.  If you are one of the old timers who managed to get a piece of that curveball, you have our utmost respect!

Vic married his high school sweetheart, Tammy Chamberlain in 1982 and they spent almost 38 years as a team, honoring their wedding vows so many years ago.  Together, they have raised their 4 children who will forever be their greatest and most cherished accomplishment.

Victor spent a large part of his adult life as a truck driver with Drewery Construction Co., Inc.  He loved his job and took great pride in driving alongside his co-workers.  His work crew soon became his second family, and Keith and the entire Drewery family held a special place in Vic’s heart.

Vic loved the outdoors, the beach, the game of baseball, the music of Elvis, old westerns on TV, fishing with the Kings, grilling with the kids, grandkids and Granna, and all of the family celebrations at the Chamberlain house.  Above all, Vic loved his faithful family, relishing every moment of being together.

Vic is survived by his adoring wife of 37 years, Tammy Chamberlain Briley along with their four incredible children, Rusty Cole Briley and girlfriend, Angela Rotondo of Houston, Leslie Carol Byerly and husband, Logan of Nacogdoches, Shelton King Briley and wife, Lindsay of Nacogdoches and Tucker Aaron Briley of Nacogdoches; two grandchildren who are the shining stars of their PawPaw’s life, Lincoln Hayes Byerly and Nova Belle Briley.  He is also survived by his beloved mother-in-law Carolyn “Granna” Whitton King; brother, Mike Briley and wife, Elise; sister, Dianne Rapsilver and husband, Harold; brothers-in-law, Kenny Chamberlain and wife, Meredith and Chris King and wife, Paula; as well as 11 nieces and nephews, all of Nacogdoches.  Vic also leaves behind his dearest lifelong friends, Mike and Brinda McClain and their children, Jason and Georganne, whose love and loyalty are unsurpassed.  

Vic was preceded in death by his parents, James and Thelma Briley and his brother, Hilton Briley.

Vic’s favorite bible verse is Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth”.  Vic truly believed that our actions should speak louder than our words and he will always be our strong, quiet, protective force in our lives.  Our family gives all glory to God and we are forever Briley Strong.

Due to current safety recommendations, Victor’s homecoming will be a private graveside service at Sunset Memorial Park on Wednesday, May 13, 2020 at 2:00pm.  Officiating the service will be Bro. Dale Morton with music by Mrs. Nicole Stewart. 

The Briley family would like to offer our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Jeremy Smith, Dr. Gerard Ventura, Dr. Olin Fearing and Hospice of East Texas for their medical expertise, their care and their compassion.