Ronald Gene Potter

Ronald Gene Potter

Ava, Missouri

Ronald Gene Potter, 75 years went home to be with his Lord May 5, 2026 at Mercy Hospital. Ronald was born along with twin brother Donald on June 11, 1950 to Orvil and Effie (Porter) Potter.

On June 14, 1969, Ronald and Brenda Kay Lakey were united in marriage at Girdner Church. He was a loving husband to Brenda Kay Potter and a devoted father to his three children: Joanna Kay Lafferty, Kayla Gene Lakey, and Lynel Landon Potter.

Ronald was a man who truly cherished time spent with family and friends. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life—hunting, fishing, camping, working on hot rods, and listening to bluegrass music, especially when it was played by members of his own family. He was known to join in by playing the spoons, adding his own special rhythm to those treasured moments. According to his nieces and nephews, he could keep a secret. He was always up for a good time and could tell a good story. He enjoyed the last seven years going to Girdner Church with his family. Ronald also enjoyed a good game of pitch and the laughter that came along with it.

He spent many years working as a mechanic at R & R Garage and Welding, where he worked side by side with his brother, Robert, forming not only a strong work ethic but lasting memories.

Above all else, Ronald deeply loved his six grandchildren, who meant more to him than words could ever express.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Orvil and Effie; his brothers and spouses, Donald, Leonard and Dee, Ed and Minnie, and James; his sister-in-law, Wilda Potter; two brothers-in-law, Ronnie Pinckney and Lonnie Atchison.

Ronald’s survivors are his children and their spouses, Joanna & Jimmy Lafferty, Kayla & Lewis Lakey, and Lynel & Lesley Potter; his six grandchildren, Maggey, Grady, Charlee, Jozie, Monte, and Journey; his siblings and their spouses, Robert & Kathy Potter, Leon & Jane Potter, Paul & Pam Potter, Doris & Steve Baten, Margie & Ray Dobbs, and Pearl Atchison; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends.

Ronald will be remembered for his warmth, his love of family, and the joy he brought to those around him. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services for Ronald will be Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in Clinkingbeard Chapel, Ava, Missouri, with burial following in the Girdner Cemetery. Visitation will be prior to the service Saturday at 10:00 A.M.

Officiating will be Pastor Ray Dobbs and Pastor Tim Brubeck. Memorials may be made to the family as a Love Offering.