IN LOVING MEMORY 

William Franklin Potts 

May 5, 1944 - August 11, 2026

William Franklin Potts, lovingly known as Bill to many of his family and friends, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2026, at the age of 82.

Bill lived a life centered on family, friendship, hard work, and kindness. He was known for his fantastic smile, his big warm hugs, and a loving personality that made everyone feel welcome. He never hesitated to lend a helping hand and was the kind of man who would truly give someone the shirt off his back if they needed it.

Bill found joy in spending time with family and friends, enjoying good food, traveling, cruises, playing cards, helping others, visiting the casino, and staying informed about world politics. He took great pride in working around the home he built and treasured the companionship of his beloved animals.

Bill was a hardworking man whose career reflected his determination and willingness to take on any challenge. Over the years, he worked as a crane operator, heavy equipment operator, and foreman for Roseburg Lumber before returning to work as a heavy equipment operator at the mill. Earlier in his career, he helped build massive airport parking structures throughout California, work that stood as a testament to his skill and dedication. Bill was also a proud small business owner, operating Outpost Feed and Pet in Winston, Oregon, for several years while continuing his work at the local lumber mill. Even after retiring, Bill's strong work ethic never slowed. He spent years hauling automobiles across the United States before launching Pottsie's Pilot Car Service, a business he owned and operated for many years. He remained active in the industry until recently closing the business within the last year, marking the end of a remarkable lifetime of hard work and service.

Bill was devoted to his wife, Katherine 'Kathy' Potts. Together they shared nearly 54 years of marriage before Kathy's passing in 2017.

Bill is survived by his four children: Deborah Potts, Deanna Pedersen, Dan Potts, and Dawn Fox; eleven grandchildren: Carrie Smith, Danielle Iddings, Shawna Keller, Amanda Brown, Brandy Oakland, Daniel Potts, Mariah Watson, Iian Stone, Mackenzie Stone, Andrew Fox, and Scott Fox; and 22 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers George Potts and family of California and Jimmy Potts and family of Kentucky, as well as the extended families of his sisters, Myrna Luebbers and Mary Lou Edwards, whose loved ones stretch from Illinois to Kentucky and Tennessee.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Armelia Potts; his beloved wife, Katherine Potts; his brother, Eddie Potts; and his sisters, Myrna Luebbers and Mary Lou Edwards.

Bill's legacy is one of generosity, love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those he cared about. Though he will be deeply missed, his smile, his hugs, and his loving spirit will never be forgotten.