Larry D Potts

Larry Dale Potts, 91, of Hermitage, passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Marilyn Sue Potts. He is also survived by his son, Keith Skinner (Tina), of Searcy, Arkansas, and daughters Melissa Groome (Kevin), of Old Hickory, Tennessee, and Lori Kenworthy (Nate), of Boise, Idaho. Larry and Marilyn have 9 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, with one more due “any day” at the time this was written.

Dad had many interests, but most of the thoughts and well-wishes received since his passing highlight his 2 biggest passions: his love for family, most importantly for his wife Marilyn, and his love for Christ and His church. The family rests securely in the peace and comfort of knowing that he is safe in his heavenly home, where we hope to be reunited one day.

Dad was talented in many areas. During his school-age years he excelled musically, serving as the drum major in his high school band. Athletically, he excelled on the baseball diamond, where he received letters of intent from 3 MLB teams to pursue professional baseball, which he didn’t pursue because of his academic abilities. He attended the Speed Scientific Engineering School at the University of Louisville on an NROTC scholarship. After obtaining his chemical engineering degree he served 3 years in the United States Navy, traveling all over the world.

It was toward the end of his naval career that he learned of the death of a good friend and former classmate, Joe Skinner. While on leave from the Navy he visited the widow of Joe, also a former classmate, Marilyn, and after many more visits that eventually led to a courtship, he and Marilyn were married in October 1959 with just-turned 3 year old Keith, to make the family complete.

Dad took a job with Chemstrand in Pensacola, Florida after getting out of the Navy, where Melissa and Lori were born. The family moved to West Virginia in 1966 where he went to work for Union Carbide and enjoyed a distinguished career. Larry and Marilyn retired to Hermitage, Tennessee, where they enjoyed many years with family. Every member of the family, which numbers over 30 now, will certainly point to a tradition of going to Pensacola Beach as a highlight of their life. We have been going almost yearly (missing very few years) for over 50 years. Last year was the 1st beach trip Dad and Mom had missed that whole time, and going forward it will feel strange to not have him with us.

Dad was a wonderful example of being the hands and feet of Jesus. He was a servant leader with a big laugh and an even bigger heart. He could fix anything, he truly cared about people, and he has left us all a legacy of faith and love that will guide us as we move forward to do life without him. Well done Dad, till we see you again.

In lieu of flowers donations to be made to St Jude's Children's Hospital or Donelson Church of Christ Help Center.

With love, your family