Brevard - Jean Belle Potter, age 90, of Brevard, NC, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 2, 2026. Jean was born on May 6, 1935 to Margaret and Arthur Ivey of Flint, Michigan. She was very close with her younger sister Judith (Judy). She met the love of her life Burt while attending square dancing classes in junior college. Jean and Burt soon married and eventually had four children, moving to Raleigh, NC in 1972 when a job opportunity with IBM became available for Burt. Jean and Burt maintained a loving and supportive marriage for almost 64 years.

Jean was a devoted wife, mother, and friend. As a young mother, she organized the family’s annual summer retreats—month-long, back-to-basics camping expeditions to Rumford Point, Maine. Jean packed a chuck wagon full of food & supplies, in addition to fun activities for the kids. The family’s days were spent swimming in Ellis River, exploring the woods and fields near the campsite, as well as weekend excursions to ME, VT & NH’s attractions (maple syrup farms, gem & mineral shows, coastlines, etc.). Evenings were spent around the campfire sharing stories with friends and family while in pursuit of the perfectly toasted marshmallow. Jean always said that these family vacations to Maine were the best times of her life.

After the kids left home, Jean and Burt moved to The Hague, Netherlands for a three-year assignment with IBM. While there, they explored many European countries and forged many close friendships. Upon retiring, they visited Brevard, NC, and immediately fell in love with the town—its surroundings, its history, and, most of all, its people. They build a lovely mountainside home and formed many lasting friendships. Jean volunteered at Sharing House’s food pantry and was an active member of St. Timothy United Methodist Church.

Jean was an extremely talented craftswoman. She often won blue or “Best of Show” ribbons with her quilting, applique, and needlework pieces. She also enjoyed doll making, crafting miniatures, and petting her dear kitties Max and Millie.
Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Burton Winfield Potter, her sister Judith Parker and her son Craig Steven Potter. She is survived by her children, Brian Winfield Potter of Durham, David Arthur Potter (Fran) of Brevard, Cheryl Potter Mills (Jason) of Raleigh and Troy Lee Ellis of Florida; 6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at 10 am, Saturday, March 21, 2026 at St. Timothy’s United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sharing House, a cause close to Jean's heart, or a charity of your choice. (https://www.sharinghouse.org/)
Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com

Moody Connolly Funeral Home is caring for the family.