Jeffrey Ray “Jeff” Pottle, 77, passed away on February 13, 2026, in Oxford, Georgia, after a long and courageous battle with chronic illness. Born on February 9, 1949, in Eastport, Maine, Jeff lived a life marked by resilience, devotion to family, and an unwavering work ethic.
Jeff was the son of the late Charles F. Pottle and Mary E. Pottle ( Avery ) of Eastport, Maine. He grew up in a close-knit family alongside his siblings and often spoke fondly of his childhood in Maine. Those early years shaped his deep appreciation for family bonds and instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance.
In 1967, Jeff answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. He served honorably until his discharge in 1969. His time in the military reflected his sense of duty and commitment—qualities that would define much of his life.
After his military service, Jeff married his former wife, Sharon L. Johnson of Calais, Maine, and together they had three sons: Jeffrey J. Pottle and his longtime partner Heather of Rome, Georgia; Joseph B. Pottle and his wife Sarah of Oxford, Georgia; and Jason F. Pottle and his wife Kelly of Commerce, Georgia. Jeff loved his sons deeply and took great pride in their lives and accomplishments. He later married and divorced Suzanne Moore of Lawrenceville, Georgia.
Throughout his working years, Jeff demonstrated an extraordinary work ethic. He often held two or even three jobs at a time, primarily working in woolen mills and other manufacturing roles. His dedication to providing for those he loved never wavered.
Jeff had a vibrant personality and a wide range of interests that brought joy both to himself and those around him. A passionate music lover with a special fondness for vinyl records, he appreciated all genres and could talk endlessly about stereo systems—one of his favorite topics alongside vacuums. He also enjoyed movies and television; Dexter was among his favorites. The Christmas season held a special place in Jeff’s heart—he celebrated it year-round with enthusiasm—and Hallmark Christmas movies were always on rotation.
He especially cherished the almost daily phone calls with his beloved sisters—a testament to the enduring closeness they shared throughout their lives.
Jeff is survived by his three sons; six grandchildren: J. Tyler Pottle of Oxford, Georgia; Casey D. Broyles and her husband Chris of Lawrenceville, Georgia; Madeline E. Pottle of Brunswick, Maine; Ansley F. Pottle of Oxford, Georgia; Carrie F. Pottle of Jefferson, Georgia; as well as five great-grandchildren: Asher, Liam, Alec, Emilia, and Norah, all will miss the never-ending bowl of M&M's he made sure were out when they visited.
He is also survived by his brother James H. Pottle of Manchester, New Hampshire; sisters Mary Jean E. Robinson and her husband Craig of Dresden, Maine; Jacqueline A. Schomaker and her husband Jon of Greene, Maine; along with many nieces (Mary and Hillary), nephews (Emerson, Nick, Adam, Patrick, Kyle, Donny, Jonathan), one great-nephew and seven great-nieces.
He was predeceased by his father Charles F. Pottle; mother Mary E. Pottle (Avery); infant sister Phyllis V. Pottle; and brother Charles E. Pottle of Portland, Maine.
A memorial gathering will be held this spring in Oxford, Georgia with date and time to be announced. His ashes will be interred in the family cemetery this summer with date and time to be announced.
Jeff’s legacy lives on through the generations he helped shape with strength and love. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him best—and may we all carry forward the warmth he brought into our lives every day he was here with us.