Dr. Phillip L Potter

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, physician, educator, and mentor, he lived by a steady creed: “always do the right thing.”

Born December 3rd, 1945, in Battle Creek, Michigan, Phil was the son of Richard and Mary Potter. He graduated from University High School in 1964. From 1966 to 1970, he served in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal—an experience that shaped his discipline and lifelong commitment to service. With his path now set, Phil spent time at Kalamazoo Valley Community College and earned both an undergraduate and a medical degree from Michigan State University.

After medical school, Phil completed his residency at the University of Louisville and his fellowship at Duke University, specializing in maternal–fetal medicine. Over the following decades, he became a trusted and respected physician caring for high-risk mothers and babies. His steady judgment, compassion, and mentorship helped build a practice that continues to care for the next generation of mothers, fathers, and medical professionals.

Phil embraced life with curiosity and purpose. He traveled widely—from Alaska to Africa—and found joy in sailing, skiing, fishing, woodworking, medical missions, coaching youth sports, supporting the Boy Scouts, and tending to the animals he loved. His horses and his German Shepherd, Gunny, were among his most loyal companions.

For more than thirty years, Phil was an active member of Peachtree Road United Methodist Church and found fellowship in the Rounders, a men’s group at Peachtree Presbyterian Church.

Phil is survived by his wife, Janis, with whom he would have celebrated 45 years of marriage this week; his children Adam, Kate, Jacob, and Abby; his seven grandchildren; and his sister, Beth Stutz. His legacy endures through the family he cherished, the colleagues he guided, and the thousands of lives he touched with integrity and care.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 2:00pm at Peachtree Road United Methodist Church, 3180 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 in the church's sanctuary.

In lieu of flowers, and if so compelled, please make a donation to:

Michigan State University – Dr. Phillip & Janis VanAntwerp Potter Endowed Fund (Designation AR000201; TIN 38-6005984)

University Advancement

535 Chestnut Rd., Room 300

East Lansing, MI 48824

(https://give.msu.edu)