BOMBAY – Janet J. Potter, 86, a longtime resident of Bombay, peacefully passed away early Wednesday morning, February 28, 2024, at Massena Hospital.
Janet was born on February 24, 1938, in Massena, the daughter of the late James Philo and Joan (Wilson) McCleave.
She was a 1956 graduate of Massena High School and continued her education at North Country Community College, where she achieved her Associates Degree. On October 7, 1961, she married Lowell E. Potter at the Massena First Baptist Church with Rev. Douglas Densmore, officiating. He predeceased her on December 17, 2009.
In addition to helping her husband on the family farm, Janet was a teacher’s aide and substitute teacher for Salmon River Central School for many years, retiring in 2002.
She was longtime member of the Bombay United Methodist Church, where she was active in the choir and was the treasurer for many years. She was also active with the United Methodist Women for many years. She greatly enjoyed singing, flower gardening, and cooking.
Janet is survived by her children and their spouses, James Ernest and Amy Potter of Cortland and Jenifer Lynne and Shannon Locklear of Antioch, Illinois; her daughter-in-law, Caroline Potter of West Potsdam; her grandchildren, Carrie Anne and Julian Potter, Michelle (Aaron) Windsor, Danielle (Micah) Beltz, Nicholas (Katherine) Potter, Erik (Erin) Locklear, Evan (Kim) Locklear, Anna Locklear (fiancé Silas Westers), and Lauren Bowers; several great grandchildren, her brother, Greg (Linda) McCleave of Wisconsin; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by a son, Warren Potter on January 21, 2024; and two sisters, Judy Layo and Joyce Emert.
Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Donaldson Funeral Home, Massena, where friends may call on Saturday 11:00 – 1:00 PM when a funeral service will be held.
Burial will be at a later time in Hillside Rest Cemetery, Bombay.
Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the Massena Hospital Foundation or a charity of one’s choice.
Friends are encouraged to share memories and offer condolences online at www.donaldsonfh.com.