Joseph “Michael” Stanton Potts Jr, 84, of Tampa Florida returned to his heavenly home on June 7, 2024. He was born on January 6, 1940 in Tampa. Joe is preceded in death by parents Joseph S Potts Sr and Margaret Potts.
Joe is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Potts of Tampa, FL. Children include Suzi and Bob Wiggs of Lawrenceville, GA; Stephen Potts (deceased); Julia and Craig Parchuke of Land O’ Lakes, Fl; and Shannon and Gregg Alford of Hilton Head, SC. Grandchildren include Jackson, Jake and Jayce Wiggs; Katie and Allie Piovesan; and Conrad, Will Henry, and Lyla Alford.
Joe proudly served our country in the US Airforce.
Joe was an avid boater and previous member of the Florida Coast Guard Auxiliary. More recently, Joe and Sandra enjoyed camping and traveling with their Airstream friends. They were also members of motorcycle groups including Harley and Honda local affiliates.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St Mark’s Episcopal Church.
St. Marks Episcopal Church
St Mark's Episcopal Church
Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park
Jimmie and O P Holder
June 12, 2024, 7:51 pm
Sandra, We are so very sorry for the loss of your precious Joe. He was a wonderful person and we are so glad we got to know him while you two were living here. We will be keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers during this time.
Diane Ackerman
June 12, 2024, 9:09 pm
Dear Sandra…I am so sad to see that Joe passed!! I hold wonderful memories of the times we were able to share! Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers! Love and hugs dear friend…God bless!! Diane Ackerman and Michelle too!❤️🙏😇
Connie Swezey
June 13, 2024, 1:24 am
Dear Sandra, I’m so sorry for your loss. I have so many memories of you and Joe during our RV travels. One that stands out is when we were crossing the border into Canada. You and Joe were the last in our group of four coaches, I think. When he got to the gate, he was asked where he was going, and he said, “I don’t know. I’m just following them”. Next thing we know, we were all pulled over waiting on you. lol. Joe was his own man and we all admired him for that. I know how much you love him and will pray for you and your family. Sending love and prayers. God bless you, my sweet friend.
Susan Payne Frost
June 13, 2024, 2:32 am
Sending out so much love to all of the Potts & Pelham families! My dad told us he met Joe in 1968 when he pulled Joe over for speeding. Joe wasn’t happy, but was respectful & knew he was in the wrong. A couple days later, my dad stopped for coffee at The Ranch House and there was Joe Potts sitting there drinking coffee too. My dad sat down, they started chatting, and they became fast friends that lasted 56 yrs! My mom was close friends with Sandra & thought she & Joe would make a good couple! Match made in heaven that led to Joe & Sandra married 44 yrs almost to the day! 💗
The day I had my daughter on Friday, the 13th of June, 2003, my dad & Joe happened to be down in SW FL and they had just passed the exit where I was in Ft. Myers. They came to pick me up and took me to the hospital in Naples, where my daughter was the first baby born out of 7 expectant moms in labor at lunchtime. Joe was there keeping my dad focused, calm & proud to welcome his first granddaughter!
The Paynes all have a lifetime of memories with all of you that we are so grateful for! We love you all! RIP to Joe Potts, one of my favorites of Mom & Dad’s lifelong friends!
Norma McKelvey
June 13, 2024, 2:43 pm
Sandra, I so sorry to hear about Joe. Sending thoughts and prayers your way.
Norma McKelvey
Haley Rivera (Herbst)
June 13, 2024, 4:11 pm
Sandra, I will never, ever forget staying in your garage apartment and the wonderful memories I shared with y’all there. Sending my love and prayers to you!
Kay and Dennis Payne
June 14, 2024, 6:39 pm
It’s hard to lose a friend you’ve had for 55 years. We spent a lot of time together with Joe & Sandra through the years, sharing many happy times and a few sad times. We’ve had innumerable cups of coffee together!
Joe was a very generous man, and he had so many friends. He never met a stranger. He respected everyone he knew.
We have so many wonderful memories of our friendship through the years. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.
Our prayers are with your family.
We will always be here for you, Sandra.
Rest in peace, our dear friend.
Nancy Bowman
June 15, 2024, 3:53 pm
Dear Sandra,
We are so saddened to hear of Joe’s passing. You and Joe have had such a big impact on our lives. Thank you for your trust and support in the creation of Community Montessori School. It’s been 35 years and we are still able to continue to educate some great new citizens in the world. We continue to honor your trust and support.
You are in our prayers and we wish you well. Jay and Nancy Bowman