Barbara M. Potter

Barbara May Potter, 96, passed away Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines.

Barbara was born June 23, 1929, in Des Moines, Iowa to William and Hazel Anderson. She grew up in the Chesterfield Neighborhood on the Des Moines’ East Side. As a young teen, she helped out at two different restaurants that her parents owned and operated. She graduated from East High School in 1947. After graduation, Barbara went on to work at Central Life Insurance Company.

In the summer of 1947, she met the love of her life, Raymond Potter. On October 20th of 1949, they became one in Holy Matrimony. Shortly after they were married, Ray was called to serve in the Air Force. Ray and Barb moved to Bangor, Maine where he was stationed. In 1952, they moved back to Des Moines. They had their first child in December 1952, Charis Rae. In February of 1955, they welcomed their son, Jeffrey Alan. Barbara was a stay-at-home mother and homemaker while her kids were growing up.

Barbara spent her entire life serving the Lord with great faith and was always active in her church. She was a dedicated member of Chesterfield Christian Church for 60 years and then went on to join and be very active at Sheridan Park United Methodist Church for over 30 years.

Barbara loved her family to no end and cherished her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed gathering with family and friends, hosting, and fellowship. She was a volunteer for many years at Lutheran Hospital helping children and young adults prepare and understand having surgery and hospital stays. She also volunteered at Parkridge Care Center while her mother was a resident there.

Ray and Barb were blessed with 75 wonderful years of marriage. They made many memories and shared tears of both joy and sorrow. They loved camping and traveling all over the United States.

Barbara is survived by her husband, Raymond Potter of Des Moines; daughter-in-law, Darcy Potter of Granger; grandson, John (Candice) Potter of Panora; two great-grandsons, Drake and Tanner of Panora; sister-in-law, Catherine Anderson; and nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Hazel Anderson; her children, Charis and Jeff; granddaughter, Tamera; and her brother, Larry Anderson.

Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by funeral service at 12:00 p.m., Friday, July 11, 2025, at Sheridan Park United Methodist Church, 4100 E Sheridan Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50317. Burial will take place at Laurel Hill Cemetery after the funeral. There will be a luncheon at the church following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Sheridan Park United Methodist Church or to Rebuilding Together, DMACC Urban Campus, 1111 9th Street, #265, Des Moines, IA 50314.

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