Jack C. Potter
March 15, 1936 - January 3, 2024
The Very Reverend Jack C Potter died Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at 87 years old. Born in Union City, Indiana in 1936, he received his Bachelor of Arts in History from Hanover College in Indiana and received his Master of Arts in History from University of Delaware. From there he went on to Divinity School at Bexley Hall Seminary at Kenyon College and received his Master of Divinity in 1965. He was ordained Deacon in the Episcopal Church in June 1965 and ordained a Priest 6 months later. He served in Providence, Rhode Island; Ardmore, Pennsylvania; Cincinnati, Ohio; and served his home state of Indiana for several years, including parishes in Crawfordsville and Lafayette; and served the Bishop of the Diocese as Program Officer of the Diocese.
In 1982, Jack was called to be the Rector of Grace Episcopal Church in Tucson, Arizona. Here he met his second wife, Patricia. He served Grace Episcopal Church from 1982-1990, when he was called to be the Dean of The Cathedral Church of St. Mark in Salt Lake City, Utah. He served the Cathedral from 1990-2002, when he retired. Wherever he served, he was beloved by his parishioners, began many new ministries, and was an incredible teacher and preacher. Jack loved gardening, camping, fishing, hunting, and world travel. He also loved all animals and kept birds, rabbits, and dogs… lots of dogs!
He is survived by his wife, Patricia of 36 years, four sons, four daughters, 10 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren.
There will be a Celebration of Life for Jack this summer; an announcement will be made at a later date.
In Loving Memory
If you look up 'kindness' in the dictionary, you will find Jack Potter's picture. Jack was Dean of the Cathedral Church of St. Mark during my tenure in the Office of the Bishop. Jack's mere presence, let alone is smile and laughter, was enough to fill any room, any time, any where. The kindness and concern Jack gave to me endeared him to my heart to this very day. When my son was on his first deployment to the Middle East in the Navy SEALs, Jack took the time on a regular basis to stop by my office, ask how my son was doing, and always made a point to tell me he was a constant in Jack's prayers. Is there a greater gift a friend can offer? Not one from my perspective. I am saddened just knowing that his beautiful presence no longer dwells among us, but comforted knowing his spirit and memory remain in my heart. Rest in peace, dear soul. Peace be with you, Patty and family. With fond memories and gratitude, Mary Kay Williams
Mary Kay Williams
Taylorsville, UT
It is not too small of a thing to say that Jack saved my life. He was the grace of God for many of the people he touched and I will be forever grateful that my life crossed his, especially when it did. To Pat and Jack's children, please receive my my love. Cameron Miller
The Rev. Cameron Miller
Geneva, NY
Jack was a true teacher, mentor and friend to me for over 40 years. His intelligence, compassion, guidance and understanding will be sorely missed by me and so very many of Jack's parishioners and clergy colleagues with whom he served. My love and prayers to Patty and all of his children. Give rest, O Christ, to your servant Jack with your saints, where sorrow and pain are not more, neither sighing, but life everlasting.
The Reverend Susan Armer
Dewey, Az