In loving memory of Iris M. Potts, age 97. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother and grandmother, who will be greatly missed. With deep sorrow, her family shares her passing on January 19, 2025 in Plant City, Florida.
She was born in Greenwood, Florida on March 29, 1927. She then moved to Tampa, Florida in the 1940’s where she met, and later married the love of her life, Joe Potts, on June 6, 1949. They had a wonderful, loving marriage for 64 years until Joe passed away on August 3, 2013. Before moving to Plant City, she lived most of her life in Tampa, where she raised their two children, Joanne and David. Her heart was full of love and pride for her children and grandson, Evan who have always given her great joy.
After the birth of her first child, she started a modeling career, which lasted for many years. She was featured in weekly newspaper advertisements and also, participated in runway modeling.
Iris was of the Baptist faith. She was a past member of the Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club for 57 years, in addition to: the Tampa Club, the Krewe of Venus and the Tampa Woman’s Club. In later years, she treasured her time playing bridge with her groups of friends who referred to her as a “true southern lady”. Before she started playing bridge, she had always said that she didn’t have any card sense. However, she became one of their best players, coming in first place quite often. It gave her such pleasure and she lit up whenever she talked about it. Iris had an outgoing and vivacious personality and we’ll always have warm memories of her infectious smile and her insatiable love of chocolate. She will be forever, loved and cherished in our hearts.
Iris was preceded in death by her parents, Claude and L. Marie Williams; brother, C. Harold Williams; and her husband, Joe A. Potts. She is survived by her daughter, Joanne M. Potts of Tampa, Florida; her son, David C. Potts of Tampa, Florida; and her grandson, D. Evan Potts of St. Petersburg, Florida.
The burial service will be held on February 7, 2025 at 1:30 pm at the Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Ave., Bushnell, FL 33513
My sincere condolences to the Potts family. May all your happy memories bring some comfort.
I remember Joanne’s mom as a beautiful Southern Lady! My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Tampa Bay lost a beautiful soul. May her family be consoled and surround by love.
Iris was a lovely lady who lived a wonderful, fulfilling life. Our condolences to her family, James and Elaine Clanton
It doesn’t matter how old we are, we always need our mother. Joanne, you provided such loving care during her final days, she was very lucky to have you. You’ll always remember what it felt like to be loved by your mother, hold those memories close to your heart. I’m thankful that I had the pleasure of building a bond with her. Remember that I’m only a call or text away. I share in your grief.