Sue Ann Potts

Sue Ann Potts died peacefully into the arms of the Lord, April 20, 2025 in Kingsport, Tennessee. Sue was born July 28, 1939 in Michigan City, Indiana, the daughter of Paul Carlson and Armilda “Midge” (Allison) Carlson.

Beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Sue’s ministry in this world began with a love for children, a love for teaching, and a deep love for her family. Sue grew up in Michigan City, IN, where she was an elementary school teacher for 36 years from 1961 to 1998. Sue was a first-generation college student, impressively earning her master’s degree in education from Indiana University and remained a proud Hoosier her entire life. She met the love of her life and married Lanny Potts on September 1, 1961 and was blessed with two children Schaun Christopher and Lanford “Lanny” Jon. A lifelong educator, whether within the classroom or elsewhere, Sue Potts was a consummate teacher and facilitator of learning, having received the highest teaching award possible, the Michigan City Area Schools Wall of Fame Award, in 2010.

Sue moved to Kingsport, Tennessee in 2003 and became a beloved “Nanny” to her extended Tennessee family. A deeply committed servant to Jesus Christ, she enjoyed her extended church family at Christ Fellowship Church and serving at the Clothes Closet for many years.

Those left to cherish her memory and gracious spirit are her sister Jane Malott of Michigan City, IN; son and daughter-in-law Lanny and Barbara Potts of Kalamazoo, MI; son Schaun Potts of Kingsport, TN; grandchildren Brittany, Evann, Elena, Jaden, and Dace Potts, and great-granddaughter Scharlette Potts.

A celebration of life will be held at Hamlett-Dobson funeral home in Kingsport, TN, on May 31, 2025. Visitation with the family will be from 10:00am to 11:00am, with a Celebration of Life service immediately following at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gentiva Hospice, 2004 American Way #101, Kingsport, TN 37660.