Tonita Potter

Tonita "Nita” B. Potter, age 89, of Johnson City, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at home on May 22, 2025. She was born on February 20, 1936, in Erwin, Tennessee. Nita graduated from Science Hill High School and ETSU, where she was a charter member of Phi Mu Fraternity, Kappa Kappa Chapter.

After graduation, she moved to Del Ray Beach, Florida, where her parents were living. After several years, she returned to Johnson City and worked at the Abernathy Robinson Abernathy architectural firm as a secretary until her marriage to Dr. Thomas P. Potter Jr. in 1978.

Nita was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church. She loved to garden, enjoyed playing golf and traveling, and cared deeply for animals of all kinds; but most importantly, she was an avid UT fan. She was preceded in death by her parents, South and Eulala Dixon; her husband of 23 years, Dr. Thomas Potter; stepson Richard Potter; brother Ferrell Blankenship; and nephew Kent Blankenship. Survivors include stepchildren Tom and Pat Potter; daughter-in-law Carol Bruce and grandson Christopher Potter; several nieces and nephews; special friend Tommye Jordan; and faithful dog, Dixie.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 12:00 pm, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Johnson City with The Reverend Doctor Laura Bryant officiating. A graveside committal service will take place following the Celebration in Monte Vista Memorial Park at 2:00 pm. The pallbearers will be Kevin Blankenship, Kirk Blankenship, Alex Perry, Chris Potter, Tom Potter, and Greg Schuette.

The family would like to thank the compassionate and wonderful care givers from Private Duty Home Care, LLC – Amy, Donna, Cassandra, Kylee, Sandy, Scotlyn, Daffney, Nina, and Wanda; and also, Amedisys Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, 5001 Angel Canyon Rd., Kanab, Utah, 84741; Tiger Haven, 237 Harvey Rd., Kingston, TN 37763; and St. John’s Episcopal Church, 500 N. Roan St. Johnson City, TN 37601.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is serving the Potter family. (423) 282-1521