Raymond E. Potter


Raymond Edward Potter, 89, of Charlotte, died peacefully Thursday, August 2, 2018 in Hastings.  Ray was born September 6, 1928 near Charlotte, the son of Carl H. and Edith Mae (Xanders) Potter.  He attended Potterville Schools before going right to work on the farm with Harold Cole.  Throughout his life he enjoyed farming, and eventually purchased his own farm.  He also worked at Aluminum Extrusion until their plant closure in 1988.  Ray then worked five years at Hastings Manufacturing, retiring in 1994.  Ray loved his time outdoors on the farm, riding John Deere tractors, and taking care of his lawn.  Indoors, he played on a bowling league, and was an avid pool and euchre player.  Ray and Joan were active members of Chester Gospel Church and practiced their Faith throughout their daily lives.  Above all, Ray loved his family.

Ray is survived by his wife, Joan Potter; two sons, Reginald (Virginia) Potter and Steve (June) Potter; two daughters, Susan (John) Boyles and Kathy Potter; two step-daughters, Eloise (Dale) Berry and Joyce (Larry) Wait; step-son, Roy (Sharon) Letson; 12 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and several step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.  He is predeceased by his parents; first wife, Mavis Royston; second wife, Elsie Baas; son, Samuel Potter; great-grandson, Dillon Boone; brothers, Royce Potter, Milton Potter, Merlin Potter, and Max Potter; and sisters, Mildred Verhelle and Margaret Verhelle.

Friends are encouraged to support Ray’s family at visitation and funeral services.  Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 13, 2018 at Pray Funeral Home with Rev. Marc Livingston officiating.  Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 12, 2018 at the funeral home, and one hour prior to the service on Monday.  If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Great Lakes Hospice.  Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Raymond on his tribute page at www.PrayFuneral.com.  The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.