Raymond Thomas “Tom” Potter, Jr., 81, of O’Fallon, IL, born on April 23, 1945, in Mechanicsburg, PA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at his home in O’Fallon, IL.
Tom loved swing dancing and played golf in a league. He was a 30-year Mason, and he found peace in cutting grass and spending time outside.
Preceding Tom in death were his parents, Charles and Ernestine Rapp.
Left to cherish Tom’s memory are his children, Tom (Sherry) Potter III, Tracey Potter; grandchildren, Candace Honeycutt, Nicholas (Meghann) Potter, Sara (Tyler) Potter; two grandsons, Everett Potter, Hudson Potter; and two sisters, Donna Butler, and Dianne Rapp. Tom also leaves his loving companion of 18 years, Connie Bowers; her children, Keith (Jessi) Bowers, Tami (Mark) Bowers-Feinstein, and Amber (Shaun) Hunter. Tom was known as ‘Topper’ to her children, grandchildren, Kyrstye Celmer, Alexis (Tyler) Feinstein-Mantia, Jenna Bowers, Vincent Bowers, Autumn Hunter; and great-grandchildren, Tommy White, and Damon Miller. As the only grandfather figure most of them had known, Tom was adored and treated as their family.
Tom was an avid golfer and leaves many golf buddies behind, including his best pal, Dwaine Dye, who was an amazing help to Connie in Tom’s last days. There aren’t enough words to praise him for all his help.
Hospice was a wonderful help, and Tabitha RN was a saving grace with her kindness and compassion.
Tom and Connie danced through every season until illness stilled his feet. Now, he may dance with the angels, waiting for the day they can dance together again.
Memorials may be made to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children; https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital; https://www.stjude.org/. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.schildknechtfh.com.
He will be buried at Marissa Cemetery following his cremation.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Schildknecht Funeral Home.
