James McLeod Potter, known to those who loved him as Jimmy, passed away at his home in Florence, SC, on August 17, 2026, just three months shy of his 95th birthday. He was surrounded by his family. A man of strength, unwavering dedication, and boundless energy, Jimmy lived a life defined by service, family, and hard work. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Belk Funeral Home in Darlington, SC followed by a reception at the Darlington Country Club. In mid to late September of this year, there will be a military burial at the Florence National Cemetery in Florence, SC. The exact date has yet to be determined.

Born on November 24, 1931, in Parkersburg, West Virginia, amidst the worst depression this country has ever experienced, Jimmy showed an early aptitude for individual survival, resilience , and competition that would shape the rest of his life . He attended the University of South Carolina, where he distinguished himself as an outstanding student and athlete, academically ranking in the top 3% of his class while working numerous jobs to pay for his education. He was an outstanding athlete, playing tennis and basketball all four years for the Gamecocks. His competitive drive, talent and discipline on the court were qualities that carried him through every chapter of his life. After graduating from the university , Jimmy answered the call to serve his country as a pilot in the United States Air Force. His service to the nation was a source of deep pride, and reflected the same sense of responsibility he applied to all aspects of his life. Along with earning the rank of Major in the USAF and a helicopter pilot in the Army National Guard, Jimmy was a contractor and land developer, building apartment complexes and houses in the Florence area. He was years ahead of his time, building the first full service car wash in Florence (the Flamingo) in 1966. It is the oldest full service car wash still operating in South Carolina. He ran a successful Insurance adjusting firm for over 50 years, and partnered with a close friend to design, develop, and construct Health South Rehabilitation in Florence, as well the Carolinian, an assisted living facility. Jimmy was extremely dedicated to his family. He built a life centered around a commitment to succeed, ensuring his family did not have to endure the hardships he faced and conquered throughout his life. He surpassed his goal to provide security for his family. Jimmy worked harder and longer than anyone around him. He poured himself into work from sun up to sun down virtually every day of his life. He had a motto he lived by which reads- Work hard, Study hard, Play hard. Jimmy (or “Squirrel” to his close friends) thrived on competition, whether it be on the tennis court, golf course, or a game of half rubber on the beach. He was a devoted dog lover, always having a dog in his life. They were treated like family. He consistently donated to the Florence Humane Society and the Florence Animal Shelter.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Hagood Huckabee Potter, his partner and anchor for nearly 68 years of marriage. Their 68 wedding Anniversary was coming up on August 27th of this year. Also surviving is Jimmy’s daughter, Meredith Potter Coxe ( Campbell) and son, James Hagood Potter Sr. (Lisa), along with grandson Campbell Davies Coxe Jr. ( Marah) granddaughter Hagood Coxe Critz (Dale); another grandson James Hagood Potter Jr and granddaughter Mary Catherine McLeod Potter. He leaves behind three great grandchildren with another on the way in September. Jimmy’s family was his greatest accomplishment, and the love and dedication given to them will endure far beyond his years. Jimmy held a quiet faith, and his family takes comfort knowing he is just beginning his eternal life in Heaven.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his father; Harry Dean Potter, mother; Ruby McLeod Potter, and brother; Donald Wayne Potter.