JoAnne Mary Potter

JoAnne Mary Potter, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on January 27, 2025, at 78. Born on August 26, 1946, in Salt Lake City, Utah, JoAnne most recently resided in Draper, Utah.

JoAnne’s father, Ralph Steadman, was a train operator, which meant her family frequently moved around the Lompoc, California, area. As the oldest of five siblings, she took on the responsibility of caring for them while her father worked. JoAnne learned many valuable skills that would serve her well at a young age. Often, being honest about her age with potential employers was a lesson she would share with many during her life, as they were pivotal moments that shaped her into the person she would become. 

In 1962, JoAnne was blessed with her first daughter, Debra. During these challenging times, she gained valuable experiences that helped her thrive as a single parent after leaving high school to raise her daughter. In 1966, while changing careers, JoAnne met a young man she would marry for the first time and later welcomed her second daughter, Shelly. The many challenges they would face over the years would only strengthen their bond in life.

Later in her life, in the small town of Paso Robles, JoAnne returned to waitressing to support her two lovely daughters when she met Donald Potter, the love of her life. The two enjoyed a loving and happy marriage for more than 20 years. As their family grew, they created many cherished memories, including simple pleasures like camping in their brown Volkswagen camper and gardening at their Milpitas and Sunnyvale homes. During their marriage, they welcomed three more children, Christopher, Michael, and Stephen, while living in Northern and Southern California. Throughout these wonderful years, she developed a love for traveling the world and discovered a passion for fashion and design.

As life progressed, she chose to refocus on family and relocated to Salt Lake City, Utah. JoAnne launched her own company, IColorU. With her passion for fashion, she advised others on which seasonal styles would complement their physical appearance. During these years, she returned to her studies to learn the art of interior design. Her love for the arts also led her to explore floral arrangements in the following years. 

While living in Riverton, she dedicated her life to her faith in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which formed the foundation of her devotion to Him. Her love for Him was evident to everyone who entered her life. She often told her children many stories about the trials and joys she experienced. Many new memories were created with her children close by. Treasured moments with her grandchildren include baking traditional sugar cookies and sharing laughter while watching classic movies like National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.

JoAnne shared a life filled with love and passion with everyone willing to engage with her. Many will miss her dearly. JoAnne’s spirit will be fondly remembered as she brought joy, creativity, and love to all who knew her. She will be profoundly missed but forever cherished in the hearts of her family and friends.

JoAnne's children survive her: Debra Hayden, Shelly Potter, Christopher Potter, Michael Potter, and Stephen Potter, along with fifteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Ruth Steadman, and her siblings, George and Gerald Steadman. Her siblings, David Steadman, Kristine Moser, and Glenn Steadman, also survive her.

Matthew 11:28 - Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavily laden, and I will give you rest.

Services will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 348 E Manti Drive, Draper, Utah, on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Please reach out to the family who will provide a streaming service for anyone unable to attend.