Wilda Nell Greene Briggs, 87, of Huntsville passed away March 30, 2026. Born on November 18th, 1938, in Loretto, TN, to Ralph and Gladys Greene, Wilda lived a life of service and dedication to others and her family.
As a child, Wilda frequently moved with her father’s work, attending 14 different schools before she graduated from Pomona High School in Pomona, CA, in 1958. It was during her time in California that she began a love of Disney that she would pass on to her family. Wilda eventually settled in Florence, AL, and met her husband Charles at the University of North Alabama. In 1968, Wilda and Charles had their only child (Karen). Wilda often stated that the day Karen was born was the greatest day of her life. Wilda went on to graduate from UNA earning a bachelor’s degree in social work with a minor in art. While at UNA, Wilda was actively involved in leadership roles in various clubs and organizations. Wilda worked for years as an alcohol and drug abuse counselor before eventually deciding to go to work for the State of Alabama working for the Department of Human Resources in the care of the elderly. Wilda loved helping those who needed support and she found satisfaction in her profession knowing how much she helped those that are often forgotten about. She instilled her servant heart and compassion into her daughter Karen.
As much as Wilda enjoyed her career, she relished her retirement and began an amazing second act with her family. The day she found out in 2002 that she had her first grandchild on the way; she immediately went out and bought a new vehicle because she realized she would be traveling soon. When her first granddaughter was born, Wilda volunteered to be a live-in nanny for when Karen had to go back to work. This turned out to be short-lived as her son-in-law (Brad) found a job in Huntsville, AL, and moved everyone back home closer to family. Three years later Wilda was blessed with her second granddaughter, and her heart became even fuller. Wilda was a constant presence in the lives of her two granddaughters. She loved them wholeheartedly and she provided her family with unconditional love and support.
To try to put into a short tribute the essence of Wilda is impossible. She was a caring loving child, sister, mother, grandmother, friend and mother-in-law who enjoyed so many things. She was an artist that loved to paint and sculpt. Wilda loved to bake, travel, read and had an amazing green thumb. She grew friendships like she grew plants and cultivated so many lasting friendships over her lifetime. Wilda had a lifelong passion for reading which brought her much joy in her retirement. Through her grandchildren she read the Harry Potter series and quickly became a big fan of the books and the movies which were on at her house constantly. She loved music and song writing and her house was always filled with music of all genres.
Wilda was intellectual, creative, and had a capability to love those around her unconditionally. At her core she was kind, joy and light. Without even trying, she made anyone in her orbit feel special and cared for. She always tried to help others see the best in themselves and she was absolutely one of a kind. She will always be in our hearts.
Wilda was predeceased by her parents and her brother Stanley. Wilda is survived by her daughter Karen Brown (Brad), her two granddaughters Natalie Brown and Kate Brown, and other loving family and friends.
As per Wilda’s wishes, no formal services will be held. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Greater Huntsville Humane Society or a charitable organization of your choice.
