Robert (R.L.) Leonard Potts

Robert Leonard (R.L.) Potts passed away peacefully on March 3, 2020 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

He was born November 30, 1937 in Maury County, the son of the late Leonard and Robbie Potts. R.L. was a graduate of Santa Fe High School where he met his beloved wife of 57 years, Esther. For decades, they sang and lead worship while R.L. led the congregation as pastor. He enjoyed playing the banjo, RVing, the outdoors, singing gospel music, watching wildlife, western movies and corny jokes. He was a member of Santa Fe Baptist Church and ACTS Christian Center in Columbia and associate pastor of St John Baptist Church in Santa Fe.

Survivors include grandchildren: Laura Potts, Daniel Potts, and Chris (Courtney) Potts all of Knoxville; his brothers Dean (Catherine) Potts of Columbia, Ray (Edna) Potts of Santa Fe, Billy (Brenda) Potts of Santa Fe, and Danny (Virginia) Potts of Santa Fe; several nieces and nephews; and special friends Naomi Kelley and Larry Tidwell. He is preceded in death by wife Esther Potts; his son Terry Potts; his parents: Leonard and Robbie Potts; brothers: Wilburn and Larry Potts; and sister, Linda Potts.

Services will be Sunday, March 8, 2020, at Williams Funeral Home, Columbia at 2:00 PM. Visitation will be Saturday, March 7, 2020 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Burial will follow at Santa Fe Cemetery.

Pallbearers - Benny Ayers, Bryan George, Daniel Potts, Jason Potts, Jerry Hubbell, Jerry Potts, Jimmy Tucker, Joey Potts, and Laura Potts.

Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.williamsfh.com .