Gerald William Potter (Jerry), age 81, of Lawrence, KS, passed away on Monday, December 23, 2024 at Neuvant House in Lawrence, KS.
Born on August 15, 1943 in Mexico, Missouri, he was the only son of Edgar W. Potter (Bud) and Wanda Carter.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife of forty-three years, Susan Potter, his son, Phil Potter, and four daughters, Lisa Pohorsky (John), Kristin Paulson (Tyson), Jessi Furneaux (Adam), and Alicia Cole (Matt). He also leaves behind his greatest joys, his ten grandchildren, Drew Potter, Ryan Potter, Jordan Pohorsky, Logan Pohorsky, Evelyn Furneaux, Max Furneaux, Harrison Cole, Oliver Paulson, Alice Furneaux, and Haddie Paulson, and one great grandson, Cam Potter.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Wanda, and his father, Bud.
Jerry grew up in Wyandotte County, as an only child, and helped his father operate their auto shop – this grew Jerry’s love of cars. After graduating from Wyandotte High School, Jerry began his career as a barber. He loved nothing more than talking with others in the shop and exchanging stories! He changed careers in 1976 and began owning and operating the Dairy Queen on 78th Street in Kansas City. This is where he met his wife, Susan. The two moved to Lawrence, KS together to operate the two Dairy Queen stores (Jerry operated Iowa St., while Susan operated Mass. St. location). They married shortly after and had their three daughters together. Jerry took great pride in his work and his family. He worked incredibly hard and provided his family with love, safety, and security. He retired from Dairy Queen in 2000 and soon returned to barbering, as he discovered that retirement wasn’t quite for him! He was able to spend his final years of barbering working at his son’s shop, a gift for them both. After his second retirement, he kept busy with his new job of being Papa to his grandchildren.
Jerry was known for his generosity, honesty, loyalty, hard work, and family values. He enjoyed traveling with his family, especially cruises and beach destinations with his wife. Throughout the years, he supported various local organizations, such as St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, Corpus Christi Catholic Church, St. John’s Elementary, Optimist Club, past president of Dairy Queen Store Operators, Mother to Mother, Boys and Girls Club, and O’Connell Youth Ranch.
Jerry’s family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Neuvant House, who cared for Jerry as their own family. He and the whole Potter family felt the love and care of those who work at Neuvant. If you would like to make a donation in his honor, we would suggest Ascend Hospice, as their staff played a significant role in Jerry’s care.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, 5700 W 6th Street, Lawrence, KS. There will be a visitation followed by rosary on Friday, January 3, 2025 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home.
Even though I worked at 19th and Mass DQ for Susan, Jerry would still come by and “cause trouble.” I also have fond memories of him taking 2 or 3 of us to Kansas City for a big DQ competition. Hugs of comfort to you all.
when my father was in the hospital with not long to live I mentioned that to Jerry and that m Dad needed a haircut. Jerry stepped up and offered to go to LMH and give my father his last haircut. I’m so appreciative of that even now years later. Jerry had a big heart!
So very sorry for your loss. Jerry always had a smile & was such a kind person. We loved seeing him, your family & his sweet grandchildren, whom he loved dearly, when we were at Neuvant House visiting our Mom. You have my deepest condolences. He will be missed! God bless.
I am so sorry for your loss. Jerry was such a kind soul and always had a smile on his face when I would see him while visiting my mom at Neuvant House. He loved his grandkids so much and their visits were so joyful for us too. He is missed. Condolences to you all.
Susan and family. I am so sorry for your loss. It was saddening to hear about Jerry. He was such a great guy. I really enjoyed working with him at Assisted Transportation during his part time career there. Prayers and deepest condolences to you and your family. Love and hugs…
Jerry will be missed by all who knew him. Not only was he a great customer when he worked which is how we first met. I considered him a good friend. My condolences to Susan and family.
I have lost a great friend that will be remembered for the rest of my life. Jerry and I have had many good times together and and he will be dearly missed