Lafayette, Colorado, is shrouded in sorrow as the community mourns the unexpected passing of Lafayette Councilor Tonya Briggs. A woman of boundless compassion and unwavering dedication, Tonya’s sudden departure on Saturday, September 16, 2023, has left a profound void in the hearts of her loved ones and the entire community. At this moment, the cause of her passing remains undisclosed.
The City of Lafayette Colorado Government shared their condolences, stating, “With heavy hearts, we come together to mourn the loss of Lafayette Councilor Tonya Briggs, who departed suddenly on Saturday, September 16, 2023, in Lafayette, Colorado. Tonya was a cherished member of our community, and her absence will be acutely felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her.”
Tonya Briggs will always be remembered for her selflessness, determination, and her unrelenting commitment to making the world a better place. Her love for animals and her dedication to environmental causes were at the core of her identity. Tonya partnered with a prominent animal sanctuary and Mother Gaia Rescue, extending her care by fostering numerous animals within her own home.
Beyond her tireless community work, Tonya was a loving mother to three young daughters. She was a passionate advocate for causes close to her heart. In November 2019, Tonya was elected to a two-year term as councilor, and in November 2021, she was re-elected for a four-year term, a testament to her unwavering commitment to her community.
Tonya Briggs served diligently on various committees, including the Colorado Municipal League (CML) Policy Committee as an alternate, the Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport Community Noise Roundtable (RMMACNR), the Human Rights Commission, and the Louisville/Lafayette Meeting (LOLA). Her dedication to these committees was a reflection of her unwavering commitment to her community.
In response to this tragic loss, a GoFundMe page titled “Tonya Briggs” was established by Rachel Cook-Swift, a Lafayette resident, to assist the family in covering funeral expenses and other related costs during this challenging period. As of now, the fundraiser page has raised $6,925 USD out of a $25,000 goal, with generous contributions, including a $500 donation from Fritz & Scott Sprague & Black.
“Many have offered their support to the Briggs family~ in light of this, we want to start this GoFundMe for Doug, Bailey, Haddie, and Finley to help ease the financial burden that comes with this situation. Please consider a contribution in her honor here. Her family and pets were her love and life. This will allow them to have less stress and focus on family and healing,” reads a statement on the fundraising page.
While the family has not yet disclosed details about her obituary and funeral arrangements, they have requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to organizations that were close to Tonya’s heart in her memory.
As Lafayette, Colorado, grapples with this profound loss, Tonya Briggs will be remembered not only as a dedicated councilor but as a kind-hearted, committed, and loving individual. Her legacy will continue to shine as a beacon of hope and inspiration for Lafayette and beyond.
