Colonel Milton Vernon Driggers

Colonel Milton Vernon Driggers, affectionately known as G-Daddy, Scrap, and Milt, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on October 4, 2025, at the age of 87, in San Antonio, Texas, surrounded by his family.

Born on June 3, 1938, in Lake City, South Carolina, Milton lived a life grounded in faith, integrity, and service—to his family, his country, and his church. He believed deeply in doing what was right: “Work hard, do your best, and keep your word.” Those who knew him best will tell you he did just that—he was always a man of his word, steadfast and humble, with a servant’s heart and a quiet strength that inspired those around him.

Milton attended the United States Naval Academy and went on to earn a B.S.E.E. from the Air Force Institute of Technology and an M.B.A. from Auburn University. His distinguished 32-year career in the United States Air Force was marked by courage, dedication, and excellence. He flew more than 100 missions over Hanoi, Vietnam, in an unarmed aircraft, and 450 peacetime collection missions across Europe and the Far East. Among his many honors were the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Legion of Merit, and the Association of Old Crows Life Achievement Award. He also served as Commander of the 6990th Electronic Security Group and completed numerous advanced courses including the USAF Air War College and the NSA Senior Cryptologic Course.

Beyond his military achievements, Milton’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Rita Kay Driggers; his children Delaina (Bill) Harrison, David (Holly) Driggers, and Diana (Catherine) Driggers; his grandchildren Madeline, Ainslee, and Aubrey Harrison; Elizabeth and Ian Driggers; Joseph, Kristine, Nicholas, and Jonathan Driggers-Gogin; and great-grandchildren Ashlynn and Arius. He is also survived by his sister, Margaret Tucker. He was preceded in death by his parents, David Cleo and Ethel Wallace Driggers, and his brothers, David L. Driggers and Phillip Anthony Driggers.

Milton’s deep faith guided every step of his life. A long-time member of Trinity Baptist Church in San Antonio, he served faithfully as a Lifetime Deacon, Chairman of the Ushers, and Chairman of the Committee on Committees. Though he often led in visible ways, the acts of service that meant the most to him were those done quietly behind the scenes—picking up food from the Food Bank for the Alpha Home, Bountiful Blessings for those in need, and ensuring others were cared for without recognition.

He was a devoted husband, father, and “G-Daddy,” whose love for his family knew no bounds. Milton found joy in traveling the world with Rita Kay and friends, tending his yard and plants, and fixing anything that needed repair. If something was broken, he wouldn’t rest until it was made right—a reflection of how he approached life itself.

Those who loved him will remember his favorite expression, often shared with a smile when someone asked how he was: “About as well as could be expected.” It perfectly captured his humble spirit, steady humor, and quiet resilience.

Milton’s life was one of faith in action—rooted in service, shaped by integrity, and sustained by grace. He leaves behind a legacy of perseverance and love that will live on in every life he touched.

We want to thank the people who cared for him so well at the end of his life: the VA Home-Based Primary Care, Veteran Directed Care and Caregiver Support teams; his team at Hope Hospice: Christina, BJ, and Ashley; and his wonderful caregivers who gave such thoughtful and dignified support to him and our entire family. Thank you especially to Sally, Gween, Julia, Amber, and Dora. You all were a tremendous gift to him and to our family.

A celebration of life service will be held at Trinity Baptist Church in San Antonio, on Sunday October 19th at 2pm, with interment to follow at a later date at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Milton’s memory to Bountiful Blessings through Trinity Baptist Church or the San Antonio Food Bank, causes close to his heart.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” —Matthew 25:23