Chaffe & Associates is saddened to announce that our friend and co-founder, Sherwood “Woody” Briggs passed away on May 26, 2026, at the age of 89.

Woody built a distinguished career as an investment banker advising the financial services industry, and was pivotal in expanding the firm’s scope to include mergers and acquisitions, particularly regulatorily-assisted transactions. He took tremendous pride in delivering exceptional service to his clients, building trust and long-term relationships that defined his career.

Black Chaffe, founder of our firm, said, “Woody was one of a kind. From the moment he joined us, he brought a level of dedication and integrity that set the standard for everyone around him. His contributions to this firm and to his clients have left a lasting mark that will endure for years to come.”

Vanessa Claiborne, CEO of Chaffe, said, “Woody didn’t just exemplify our firm’s principles of quality, confidentiality, and integrity — he lived them every single day, and he inspired everyone who worked alongside him to do the same. His genuine commitment to his clients and his community was evident in everything he did, from the boardroom to the classroom.”

Born in Buffalo, New York in 1936, Woody began his career in banking in 1960 with Manufacturers and Traders Trust Company. In 1978, he joined Jefferson Guaranty Bank in Metairie and in 1983 was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, as well as Treasurer of the bank’s holding company, Jefferson Bancshares, Inc. Woody joined Chaffe in 1985.

He held a BA from Cornell University and an MBA from State University of New York, and served in the United States Army.

Woody navigated the complexities of finance with the same steady hand, warmth, and personality he brought to everything in his life – whether he was telling a great story or debating the latest issue of the day. He had an insatiable curiosity that drew him to great books about history and current events, a quality that made him both an exceptional advisor and a cherished conversationalist. He loved a good cigar and a spirited discussion in equal measure. He was a director emeritus of the New Orleans Shakespeare Festival.

“Woody’s stories and the stories about him are already part of the lore of our firm,” said Gay LeBreton, Managing Director at Chaffe. “He gave generously of his knowledge through teaching and mentoring, and I will be grateful to him always as my mentor and my friend.”

He is survived by his sons, Joseph and Jonathan Briggs, his stepchildren, Jane Murdoch and Jesse Murdoch, and a circle of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kate Briggs. His family is planning to honor Woody at a memorial event in New Orleans later this year, date to be determined.