William Potter Obituary

It is with much sadness that we note the passing of William M. "Bill" Potter (Feb. 22, 1943 - Mar. 12, 2023). Son of the late Milo and Lucille Potter, Bill grew up in Southwest Virginia and graduated from Virginia High School (1961), East Tennessee State University (BS 1965), and Memphis State University (MA 1970).

Bill taught Economics at Fairmont State University for 30 years. He loved teaching and working with his students, who were a constant source of joy and entertainment to him. He also loved the outdoors and was an avid hiker and backpacker. He hiked from Georgia to Maine on the Appalachian Trail (section hiker, completed Sept. 17, 1993). He ran marathons. He had his pilot's license and enjoyed flying, did some kayaking, fishing, archery, mountain climbing and taught outdoor survival skills. He also enjoyed shooting and was a certified firearms instructor. Over the years he served in multiple organizations that shared his love for these activities.

Bill is survived by his wife Joyce H. Potter, sister Mary Ann Taylor (husband Wayne), niece Melissa Taylor, brother-in-law Marshall Hickman, Jr., and numerous cousins.

Although he fought valiantly, he was not able to defeat a benign but aggressive tumor that compressed his spine and impacted his mobility and overall health. We loved him very much and miss his quick wit and snarky spirit.

Bill was privately laid to rest by his family on March 18, 2023 at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem, VA.

Hastings Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements and condolences may be made online at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com