Frank Allen Potter

Frank Allen Potter, a steadfast pillar of the Lumberton community, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2025, at the age of 90, in Hattiesburg, MS. Born on January 7, 1935, in Poplarville, MS, he lived a life marked by hard work, service, and tremendous love for his family. Frank graduated from Lumberton High School in 1953, where he demonstrated his leadership skills as the captain of the football team. He carried these skills into adulthood, becoming a successful entrepreneur and beloved community leader. His business acumen was evident through his ownership of various ventures, including restaurants, furniture stores, a teen center, and service stations. Despite the demands of his enterprises, he continuously devoted time and energy to his hometown of Lumberton. Frank served as a constable, contributed to the volunteer fire department, and played a crucial role in the founding of North Lumberton Water Utility. His vision for growth helped develop the Lumberton Airport and he also lent his insights on the Economic Development Council. Frank's legacy of faith is embodied by his service as a deacon at the First Baptist Church of Lumberton and the generous donation of land that established Trinity Church, now known as the Lumberton Church. An avid outdoorsman, Frank relished the tranquility of nature, whether fishing in serene waters, hunting amongst the whispering trees, or tending to his garden. His rhythmic feet enjoyed square dancing and clogging. An enthusiastic traveler, he frequently visited Branson, Missouri, for its vibrant entertainment. His love for gospel music extended beyond listening; every summer, he participated in missions trips with Builders for Christ to help build churches, showcasing his talents in woodworking and his devotion to spreading the word of God. Frank Allen Potter's legacy will echo through the generations, in the community structures he helped construct, the church pews he reverently filled, and mostly, in the hearts of those he touched. His was a life meaningfully lived, abounding in accomplishments, and built upon the happiness of others. Family was the cornerstone of Frank's life. He leaves behind a loving wife of 71 years, Mary Faith Potter, and their daughters Gwen (Tim) Potter Page, Gay Potter Smith, and Gretta (Louis) Potter Holloway. His memory will continue to be cherished by his seven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. He is preceded by his mother Hattie Byrd Potter Bounds, sister Mary Elizabeth Schwierjohn, and brother Edwin "Skipper" Potter. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Potter family in their time of need and we ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers through the days ahead.