Rita Potts, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and caregiver to many, passed away Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, at the age of 65.
She was born on March 12, 1960, a daughter to the late Marion Joe and Mildred Edith (Cahill) Haines.
She lived a life marked by faith, service, and love. Known for her warm spirit and generous heart, she devoted herself not only to her family but also to everyone who was blessed to know her. She was the heart of her home and a steady presence in her community.
A gifted cook, Rita was famous for her pies and home-cooked meals, which brought comfort and joy to countless family gatherings and friendships over the years.
Rita worked as a waitress, where her kindness and cheerful nature touched the lives of those she served.
She was a huge KC Chiefs fan who also enjoyed gardening and canning, cooking, eating sweets and watching the Young and the Restless and the Bold and the Beautiful.
Rita was selfless and would always help out others in need and she volunteered at many different charitable functions through the years. She loved sewing and making baby blankets for many families but above all, she loved the times spent with her family.
Rita’s faith was central to her life. A godly woman, she lived her beliefs daily through compassion, humility and steadfast devotion.
She was preceded in death by parents, Marion and Mildred; sisters, Betty Shockley, Joanne Vandegriffe, Cindy Price and husband Gary; brother, Jim Haines; mother and father-in-law, Floyd “Bud” and Jessie Potts; brothers-in-law Bill Potts and Paul Mercuio; sister-in-law, Robin Haines; aunt, Naomi West; and many other in-laws.
Rita is survived by husband of almost 50 years, Sam Potts of Vichy; children, Mindy Potts of Salem and Ashley Potts of Vichy; grandchildren, Makalya Potts, Ben Price, Jayla Crump, Braelyn Wagner, Jayse Potts, Collins Tune and Stephanie Cope; tiny little love, Evelene; many other bonus grandchildren; sisters, Linda Morelock and husband Larry of Alabama and Carolyn Francis and husband Mike of Corpus Christie,Texas; brothers, Billy Joe Haines of Rolla and Kenny Haines of Owensville; sisters-in-law, Brenda Wilson and husband Sam of Belle, Pam Rohrer of Bland and Jannet Potts of Highgate; dog, Oreo; many other in-laws, extended family members and friends who will carry her memory in their hearts.
Her legacy is one of love, faith, and care—reminders of a life well lived and deeply cherished.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, Sept. 30, at the Broadway Baptist Church near St. James. Interment followed in the Highgate Cemetery.
Memorial contributions suggested to the Broadway Baptist Church.
Arrangements entrusted to Sassmann’s Chapel in Belle.
