Claude Edward Potts

There are many things in life that are often overlooked or forgotten; the everyday gifts taken for granted like unconditional love and sincerity. Claude Edward “Ed” Potts taught us all to live everyday with those little gifts and instilled the importance of showing others that same appreciation. He was born in College Park, Georgia on January 18, 1953. Ed did not have the normal up-bringing that most people have. He survived many times on his own, and learned a lot from having to raise himself. He lived a very painful life, but that never took the smile from his face. He was recruited for the army at the young age of 17 years old. He learned various skills such as carpentry, HVAC, and mechanical. At 18 he went on to serve in the Vietnam War. He was wounded during his time in Vietnam and received two Purple Heart awards among many others; such as a medal of valor and the bronze star the Vietnam Government. He received his wings for over 1,000 hours of combat flying. He honorably served and was discharged from the Army on June 17, 1974.

Once he was released into civilian life he began working as a roofer among various other types of general labor jobs. He owned and operated his own HVAC Company in Austin for over 35 years and enjoyed what he did very much. What Ed loved more than anything was his children, family and friends. As many can attest, to he was always a humble and kind man. He received much gratification from helping others and took little in return for himself. He may not be with us any longer, but we all know that he is with everyone he has ever touched or spoken to in his long, incredible life. Some famous quotes of his were “ain’t gonna give up on love” and “job well done.” Every time the word “DORK” was mentioned, he made sure everyone knew it stood for “dynamite, out-of-sight, radical kid”.

He passed away on Saturday, May 28, 2016 after a short battle with brain and lung cancer. He was 63 years old. Ed is survived by his wife Marilyn Potts, children Bryan Edward Potts, Sterling Claude Potts, Centaine Noel Potts, Aidan Keller Potts. Step-children: Bruce Spink, Colin Spink, Tosha Penney, Tabitha Keas and Timothy Keas. Grandchildren: Drayton Robert Claude Smith (Potts), Hailey Penney, Franky Penney, Jr., Emily Penney, Kensley Seay, Khloe Seay.