Velma Arleen Potter

Velma Arleen Potter, 86, of Phoenix, AZ went to be with her Lord and Savior October 15, 2018. She was born on the family farm to Clayton Bradley and Dema Mae [Miller] Wisseman on July 5, 1932 in Greenwood, Delaware.Velma has been described by many people as gracious, kind, quietly introverted but determined and independent. She was a devoted wife, mother and loyal friend. Her faith went deep and her commitment to Christ was unwavering. She loved her church and beautiful music, particularly classical piano and opera. She always looked for the beauty in everything around her. She pursued excellence in everything she did and as a result, was a lifelong student. She took great care in choosing the perfect greeting cards and gifts for her family and close friends, always seeking to make each person feel uniquely special; she never missed a shower, birth or special event.

The Great Depression sent Velma’s family in search for work in mining and they were forced to make many moves. Velma moved along with her family from Delaware to California, New Mexico and Wyoming. While living in Laramie, Wyoming she met the love of her life, Donald “Don” Potter; Don in 1949. The two were married in April of 1951 after Don returned from serving two-years in the Korean Conflict. Velma and Don were relocated to Mesa, Arizona when Don went to work for Hummel Construction, later starting his own Construction Company and pursuing other various entrepreneurial endeavors.

After moving to Mesa, Velma and Don joined Mesa First Church of the Nazarene in 1955. They played a key part in building the church and were active members throughout their lives. Velma is survived by her daughter, Cynthia L. (Stephen) Fetters; son Bradley (Mary Elizabeth) Potter; grandchildren, Logan, Jordyn and Justin Fetters and Michael Potter; one great grandson, Cameron Potter; her brothers, Lavon (Denise) Wisseman and Arlen (Miriam) Wisseman; her sisters-in-law Janice Hickey and Arlene Potter. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her loving husband Don Potter.