Lonnie Potter

Lonnie James Potter   Born May 4th, 1957   Died May 7th, 2022. Three days after his 65th birthday. He was preceded in death by his wife Ruth Rebecca Potter on March 13th, 2022.

Lonnie may have been one of the shortest Marine’s in history, but he was one of the few and the proud, he was a Marine to his core. He was very proud of his military service. He often described himself as diminutive but feisty.

Following his discharge from the Marine’s Lonnie tried civilian life for a time and concluded it was not for him. He decided to re-enter military service by joining the Air Force to honor his stepfather, William Griffith. He served almost 4 years in support of Operation Desert Shield/Storm. He received several medals, decorations and ribbons for his military service.

Lonnie retired from the military in 1994. Like many veterans he suffered from the effects of his military service and became a retired/disabled veteran. He returned to college to become a chaplain so that he could help others like himself.

Lonnie married his wife Becky in July of 2002. They would have been married for 20 years on their upcoming anniversary. Lonnie was never blessed to have children of his own. Becky had 2 children, David and Rebecca, from a previous marriage.

Lonnie was the son of Carolyn Kersey and the late James Robert Potter who died in June 2021. He was the second of four children. His sister, Anna, and brother, Billy, preceded him in death. He is survived by his sister, Angela Smith, nieces Amanda, Heather, and Jennifer and several great nieces and nephews.

Lonnie would suggest a memorial contribution to the Disabled American Veterans or the American Red Cross in his name for those who wish to honor him. Both organizations were very dear to his heart.  

With thanks and appreciation to the Divine Mercy Funeral Home for their care of Lonnie and Becky and for the help they have gone above and beyond to extend to both families.