James Clifford Spriggs Jr.

James Clifford Spriggs, Jr. James Clifford Spriggs, Jr., affectionately known as Baby Brother or JC, passed away peacefully at his home in Manassas, Virginia, on August 25, 2026. Born on July 6, 1951, he was the beloved son of the late James C. Spriggs, Sr., and Marion Inez Spriggs, both preceding him in death in August 1976. James will be lovingly remembered by his siblings: Sharon Spriggs; Charles Lester Spriggs and his wife, Barbara; and Vivian C. Dixson and her husband, Thomas. He is also survived by his sons, Eric and Rashad Spriggs; grandsons, Bryson and Isaiah; six nieces and nephews; fourteen great-nieces and great-nephews; ten great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews; and many cherished cousins and friends. A Life of Service and Distinction James attended Jefferson County Schools, where he was both a scholar and an accomplished athlete. He played Varsity Basketball at Harper's Ferry High School and graduated with the class of 1969. After high school, he was drafted in 1970 from Concord College in Athens, West Virginia, and served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps, where he earned recognition as a prized boxer. Seeking new challenges, he served in the United States Navy from December 20, 1972, to May 18, 1979. Throughout his military career, he received numerous citations and honors. A Hero in the Shadows After leaving the military, James applied his skills as Chief Radiologic Technologist at George Washington University Hospital in Washington, D.C. On March 30, 1981, his expertise became instrumental in history. Following the assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan, while a trauma team of renowned surgeons stood ready, it was James Clifford Spriggs who discovered and located the .22 caliber bullet lodged in the President's body. Only then could the surgical team proceed—and ultimately save President Reagan's life. JC's quiet heroism that day changed the course of history, yet he carried it with characteristic humility. A Man of Many Talents After his hospital career, James embraced new chapters with characteristic enthusiasm. He worked as a skilled bartender for 10 years at the City Tavern in Manassas, Virginia. Later, he leveraged his natural gift for connecting with people—he could, as family says, "sell water to a river"—in a successful career as a Car Salesman at Battlefield Ford in Manassas, where he received numerous awards and accolades. In 2020, he hung up his work boots and retired to a well-deserved rest. Time With Family In his retirement, James did what he loved most: spend time with family and friends. He enjoyed fishing trips, walking with his brother Charles Lester, and simply being present. He perfected the art of good-natured teasing, and his laughter was a gift we will treasure. James Clifford Spriggs, Jr. loved his family deeply, and that love was returned in full measure. We thank God for every laugh, every conversation, every quiet moment—and for the man he was. We will hold these memories close until we meet again. We love you, Baby Brother. We love you, J.C.! Memorial Service The family will celebrate James's life with a memorial service on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Hospice of the Panhandle, 330 Hospice Lane, Kearneysville, WV 25430.

James Clifford Spriggs Jr.

July 6, 1951 - August 25, 2026