COLUMBUS — Although Columbus was his native stomping ground, Henry Potter’s presence was felt miles away until his death on July 4. What fit ting day to leave this world than on a day that is the essence of who Potter was and who will be remembered for his patriotism and love of country.
For those who knew him, his life could fill a book. His love for everything American can be seen from his boyhood to his final breaths. Generations of his family lived and worked in Colorado County, and at a young age, he joined the Boy Scouts in Columbus and eventually earned his Eagle Scout Badge in 1958. He joined the FFA and earned his Lone Star Farmer Degree.
His life revolved around country life, as did generations before him. He worked on the family cattle ranch until his death.
Potter attended Texas A&M in 1959 and graduated with a Master’s in Education. He then became a Vocational Agriculture teacher at Lamar High. He taught hundreds of young students, instilling in them vocational skills and a strong character that many attest to using to this day.
Potter married Pamela Morris in 1971, and they both taught for HISD until 1973. He took over his family’s western wear business in Columbus in 1965 and devoted his life to serving customers, supporting his community in many ways, and spreading his love for others. He served in the Boy Scouts for 30 years and held the title of District Advancement Chair. He volunteered for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for over 50 years and became an Honorary Lifetime Director.
To say that he supported his community would be an understatement. He gave much of his time to the Colorado County Fair. He, his wife, Pam, and the Dale Heinsohn family were instrumen- tal in having the first Colorado County Fair float over 30 years ago.
Despite his popularity and numerous achievements, Potter remained a downto- earth hometown boy. He treated everyone with the same respect and kindness, always embodying the golden rule. His down-to-earth and humble nature made him approachable and relatable to everyone.
Potter was not just a member but a cornerstone of numerous organizations.
His mark, influence, and dedication will be hard to live up to. His impact on local organizations and events is a testa- ment to his significant contribution to his community.
See Potter’s complete obituary on Page 5.
