Jeff Briley

Jeff Briley, whose life was marked by curiosity, creativity, and a deep love for Oklahoma’s history, was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and later moved with his family to Nowata and then Idabel, where he graduated from Idabel High School. He went on to earn his degree from the University of Oklahoma before continuing his studies at Oxford in London.

Upon returning to the United States, Jeff began a distinguished career in Oklahoma state government. He was first hired as a naturalist for the Tourism Department at Beavers Bend State Park, later transferring to Quartz Mountain State Park. He continued his service with the Oklahoma Historical Society, where he started as a curator and ultimately became deputy director of its flagship institution, the Oklahoma History Center Museum.

Jeff had a gift for making history come alive. Through hundreds of presentations, he wove together the people, places, and artifacts of Oklahoma into vivid stories that preserved the state’s heritage. He participated in countless events and re-creations, including trail rides, and for many years portrayed Pawnee Bill at the annual museum roundup. He also directed the transfer of artifacts from the former Historical Society Building to the Oklahoma History Center. Jeff devoted an incredible 45 years to Oklahoma state service, including an extraordinary 33 years, 7 months, and 27 days with the Oklahoma Historical Society—leaving behind a legacy of passion, knowledge, and preservation.

Outside of his career, Jeff was a man of many pleasures and talents. He enjoyed his wife’s cooking and was a well-trained sous chef in their kitchen, with a fondness for pasta and a good glass of dry red wine. Just as much, he loved music of all genres, strong coffee, and the company of friends. Jeff was a master storyteller whose quick wit, warm humor, and unmistakable laugh could fill a room, draw people close, and turn even the simplest moment into a lasting memory. He was also a champion nap-taker and always generous with his time when it came to tackling his wife’s “honey-do” list. His hobbies were equally rich—he was an accomplished photographer, skilled woodworker, avid trout fisherman, and passionate sail boater. He was also a vintage car enthusiast, owning two Jaguars and actively participating in the Jaguar Club of Central Oklahoma and the Horseless Carriage Club of America, lovingly referred to as “The Donut Boys,” with whom he met regularly to share adventures, coffee, and donuts.

Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Eva Briley, and his brother, Tim Briley. He is survived by his beloved wife, Melanie Briley of Oklahoma City, who loved him greatly; his son, Vadim Briley of Norman; stepchildren Ian, Ethan, and Lydia, all of Oklahoma City; and his constant companion, Gertrude the cat.

Jeff’s life will be remembered and celebrated by those who loved him most. A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Oney Barn, 10021 N Sooner Rd, Oklahoma City. The family encourages friends to honor Jeff’s spirit by arriving in vintage automobiles.