It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jeannie Potter of Elgin, South Carolina. Jeannie was a light to everyone who knew her. She was known for her warm heart, generous spirit, and unwavering love for her family, friends, church, and community.

Jeannie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ernest Christian “Chris” Potter III; her parents, Robert and Mae Rose; and her father-in-law and mother-in-law, E.C. and Gladys Potter. She is survived by her son, Ernest Christian Potter IV (“Christie”); her siblings, Janice Evatt (Dan), Roberta Hellams (Wilton), Calvin Rose (Kim), and Ervin Rose; her brother-in-law, John Potter (Paula); her sister-in-law, Patti Coleman (Donnie); her grandchildren, Christopher Murphy (Caroline) and Victoria Potter; and her great-grandson, Theodore Murphy. Jeannie also deeply loved and treasured her many nieces and nephews. Also special to her were her Moak and Rose family of aunts, uncles, and cousins, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Jeannie graduated from Blaney High School in 1969, where she formed many lifelong friendships and was a proud member of the girls basketball team. The friendships she built during her school years remained close and meaningful throughout her life. Her love for the game continued long after graduation, evident in her years of coaching numerous basketball teams through the Kershaw County Recreation Department, where she invested in and encouraged generations of young girls.

A faithful member of Highway Pentecostal Holiness Church in Elgin, South Carolina, Jeannie gave selflessly of her time, love, and energy to her church. Over the years, she faithfully served in many capacities, including Youth Director, writer and director of many church dramas, member of the choir and various musical groups, and Special Programs Director. She had a unique gift for making everyone feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Whether someone needed encouragement, comfort, or simply a listening ear, Jeannie was always there.

Jeannie lived a life defined by service, compassion, and dedication to others. She devoted more than 35 years to the South Carolina House of Representatives, where she faithfully served in numerous roles with professionalism, grace, and integrity. She began her career as Executive Secretary in the Ways & Means Committee. In 2005, she became Executive Assistant to the Speaker of the House, faithfully serving Speakers Robert Harrell, Jr., Jay Lucas, and Murrell Smith until her retirement in 2024. Throughout her career, she earned the admiration and respect of countless elected officials, colleagues, and friends for her reliability, kindness, and servant’s heart.

Before her years with the House of Representatives, Jeannie served 14 years with the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Department as secretary to Sheriff Hector DeBruhl. Her commitment to serving her community extended far beyond her professional career. She faithfully volunteered with the Elgin Catfish Stomp parade for many years. She also served as President of the Kershaw County Police Officer Memorial and was a proud board member of Potter Community Park.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Highway Pentecostal Holiness Church, 2290 Heath Pond Road, Elgin, South Carolina 29045. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Highway Pentecostal Holiness Church with burial to follow at Ira Goff Cemetery located beside Hillcrest Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Kershaw County Law Enforcement Officers’ Memorial Fund at https://payv3.xpress-pay.com/pt/f9a40be60c1711f0afa6005056b805a0 or in person at Kershaw County Sheriff’s Department located at 821 Ridgeway Road, Lugoff, South Carolina 29078.