Raymond Potts

October 19, 1925 ~
February 19, 2021

Raymond Potts, age 95, of Grand Rapids, went to be with his Lord on Friday, February 19, 2021. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Dorothy; brothers, Jacob, Robert, and Joseph Potts Jr. He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Mary and Jim Ruissen, Ruth and John James, Elizabeth and Tim Libson, Susan Marie Potts; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, David and Virginia Kok. Ray served with the U.S. Army during World War II. He earned his master’s degree from Michigan State University and spent most of his career teaching, retiring from West Side Christian School. Ray was a man of integrity and his faith was evident in his life, serving as an elder in his church and a lifelong member of the Christian Reformed and United Reformed denominations. Ray was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Edison Christian Life Services for the love and care shown to Raymond during these difficult times and for being his substitute family during COVID. Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 22, 2021, at 11 a.m. at Bethany United Reformed Church, 5401 Byron Center Ave. SW, with Rev. Eric Van Der Molen officiating. The funeral service will be recorded and can be viewed on the funeral home website later on Monday by clicking on the live streams and recordings tab. The burial will take place at Grandville Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family Monday from 10-11 a.m. at the church prior to the public service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Edison Christian Foundation.

Visitation
Monday, February 22
10:00am - 11:00am

Bethany United Reformed Church
5401 Byron Center Ave SW
Wyoming, MI 49519

Funeral Service
Monday, February 22
11:00am

Bethany United Reformed Church
5401 Byron Center Ave SW
Wyoming, MI 49519

Leave Your Tribute Message

February 23, 2021 11:17pm
Mary, Ruth, Elizabeth, & Susan, As you grieve for the loss of your Dad and your Mom in less than two months, you also my have moments of relief, joy, and hope as you know that they are walking together in their Heavenly home. And in remembering your childhood home, my second “Mom & Dad” and family, & our childhood friendship (BFF playing at each other’s houses, walking together to WSCS, etc)... those special memories will always be treasured. Praying now for your peace and comfort.

- Shelly (Flietstra) Steensma

February 22, 2021 8:39pm
I can also say that Mr. Potts was one of my favorite teachers in my 7th grade year at West Side Christian (I was nicely reminded of his "cut the mustard" phrase - very true!) He spoke with quiet authority yet he was transparent and real with us, I'll never forget his personal stories that he shared with us at the front of the classroom, and once he even shed tears as he recounted a painful experience during his combat experience. He seemed classy and filled with vitality. I'll never forget when he would unexpectedly come out to the ball diamond during recess, go up to home plate, and hit softballs nearly out of the park, all while wearing a suit and tie! What a kind-hearted, all-around great teacher! Now that I'm a teacher myself Mr. Potts will always remain a kind of inspiration to me.

- Phil Block

February 22, 2021 6:58pm
I had him for science. He was always able to keep my attention in class. I later met him when I visited with my dad, who also was at Edison Manor.

- Richard Koll

February 21, 2021 5:00pm
Mr. Potts was my teacher when i was in Junior high at West Side Chr. He taught me science and 7th grade bible. He was a funny ,energetic teacher. He had two phrases he used to get us to get us motivated and back on track "Lets get back to the ranch", and "We have to cut the mustard!". Even though he and i always got along well i sure got the look when it was getting loud in the room and I stood up and said" Alright now! We have got to get back to that ranch and cut that mustard!". HE was supposed to say that! Still he grinned at me later when i left class. He often despaired of my handwriting usually giving me a low score in handwriting. "You know why i'm giving you a 4 don't you? I mean just look at that writing!" I enjoyed his classes and liked him very much. He was a wonderful witness of Christ and the faith we shared. I'm glad and thankful to have known him.

- Julie R Vander Slik




Order flowers for Raymond's service.

Designer’s Choice Grand Vase Arrangement

White Wonder

Thinking of You Basket

Tender Touch

Stargazer Garden

Stargazer Easel Spray

Sincere Sympathy Garden

Seasonal Potted Plant (mum, poinsettia, cyclamen, etc.)

Remembrance Easel Spray

Natures Glory

Loving Embrace

Gerbera Greetings

Colorful Memories Wreath

Classic Sympathy

Blooming Duo

Bells of Beauty

Beautiful Memories

Beautiful Blessings Wreath

Floral arrangements provided by Love Knots Floral.

 

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