William Joseph (Bill) Potts, 88, passed away peacefully in his home on December 23, 2023. He was born on September 27, 1935, in Owensboro, to the late Lawrence Hollis Potts and Maurica Lucille Millay Potts. He graduated from Owensboro Catholic High School in 1954. While attending school there, he met the love of his life Hattie Lou, his wife of 64 years. Bill’s life was a testament to his dedication and service. A proud veteran, he served his nation in the US Navy from 1956-1962. He was employed as a production supervisor at W.R. Grace/Daramic, Inc., for 40 years until his retirement in 1999. After retirement, Bill took a part-time job working as a courier for Independence Bank. He loved his visits to the branches he serviced and found so much joy in his daily chats with his Independence Bank family.
Bill cherished his roles as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His faithfulness extended to his service to Jesus Christ, exemplified in his many years of active involvement at Immaculate Catholic Church. Bill’s commitment also manifested in years spent aiding Birthright, St. Vincent DePaul, and various Catholic charities.
Outside, Bill found joy in his meticulous yard and garden, and his garage was a haven for piddling and completing his many “honey do” projects while whistling his favorite tunes. He also cherished his daily coffee outings with close friends.
In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife Hattie Lou, daughter Amy Carol, great-grandson Jordan Coy, and sibling Marguerite (Doodle) Campbell.
Bill is survived by his four daughters, Annette Coy and her son Kevin (Jessica); Alison Fiorella and her children Lauren (Travis) Morrison, Justin (Vrinda) Fiorella, and Jake (Erin) Fiorella; Abby (Darren) Cissell and sons, Matthew and Will; Emily (Jason) Sargent and children Mary Frances (Joseph) Boarman, Adaline Fulkerson, John (Alexis) Sargent, Sophia Fulkerson, Michael (Katie) Sargent, and Mathew (Audrey) Sargent. Bill’s pride extended to a multitude of great-grandchildren: Christopher, Cash, Halle, Brady, Miles, Anna Lucy, Colin, Luca, Tucker, Jett, Hazel, Giovanni, Hudson, and Thomas. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Donald J. Johnson and numerous nieces and nephews.
A visitation to celebrate Bill’s life will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, December 29, 2023, at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home and Crematory. A service, officiated by Fr. Tony Jones, will immediately follow at the funeral home. A private burial will be held at a later date.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Help Office of Owensboro, Inc., 1316 W. 4th Street, Owensboro, KY 42301, and Birthright 512 W. 7th Street, Owensboro, KY 42301. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory is both honored and privileged to be entrusted with the care of William Joseph (Bill) Potts. Leave your messages of condolence for the family of Mr. Potts and sign his virtual guestbook at www.haleymcginnis.com.