Marvin H. "Butch" Potts Jr.

1946 - 2003

Marvin H. "Butch" Potts Jr.

1946 - 2003

BORN

1946

DIED

2003

Marvin Potts Obituary

Published by Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth Funeral Home on Apr. 26, 2003.
Marvin H. “Butch” Potts, Jr., 57, of Bryant, passed away on Saturday, April 26, 2003. Born January 23, 1946, in Little Rock, he was the son of Marvin H., Sr., and Helen (McLellan) Potts.

A retired sergeant from the Little Rock Police Department, he was currently a sergeant with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

He was a member of Bryant Church of Christ. Other memberships include, SSBLA, NASBLA, International Water Safety Council, and Arkansas Wildlife Officers Association. He served with the U. S. Navel Reserve, stationed at the Pentagon.

Preceded in death by his parents, he is survived by two daughters, Angela S. Herron, of Benton, and Salena G. Potts, of Bryant; and a sister, Betty Whitfield, of Benton.

A gathering in remembrance of Mr. Potts will be at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 29, 2003, at Pleasant Valley Church of Christ, 10900 North Rodney Parham, with Mike Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park.

Visitation will be Monday, April 28, 2003, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth, 5800 W. 12th, Little Rock, 661-9111.

The family will be gathered at 2113 Northshore, Benton, Arkansas.

Memorials may be made to Twice Blessed House, c/o Baylor University Medical Center, Gaston Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75246; Baylor Regional Transplant Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, 3535 Worth, Dallas, Texas 75246; or Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 25420 Ginger Hill Circle, Little Rock, Arkansas 72223.

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November 12, 2025

paula kindall posted to the memorial.

March 27, 2025

Paula Kindall posted to the memorial.

September 29, 2020

Paula Kindall posted to the memorial.

paula kindall

November 12, 2025

Mr. Butch Potts was our next door neighbor, and a great friend of ours.
My mother did his taxes for him every year for years. His father lived on the other side of us. We were very protected, because both of them were police officers. Butch helped us a lot when we needed it. He will be missed.

Paula Kindall

March 27, 2025

Im so sorry for your loss of your father. My family used to live next door to your father. My parents did his taxes for years. We also went to the same Church he did. We were great friends, and since my parents are going from this earth now. I now live in Jacksonville, ar. Your grandmother Helen Potts told us about Pathfinders inc. long ago, and I am glad she did.
God bless you . R.I.P Marvin Potts

Paula Kindall

September 29, 2020

He was our next door neighbor, and his parents were our next door neighbors. My mother made his taxes every year, until she retire. He was a good friend of ours. I miss him very much. God go with his family. Sorry that this was late, but I didnt have a computer until now. Sorry for your loss. You had to greatest father that ever was.

Joe (Jody) Tustison

May 17, 2003

We went to high school with Marvin at Mabelvale (Class of 64 and 65). He was always a good friend and someone you could depend upon. We will miss him. Condolences to his family and his sister. He will be missed by many. Jody and Ginny (Briscoe) Tustison.

Mark Weise

May 1, 2003

On behalf of the Arizona Game & Fish Department, I send our deepest sympathies and condolences to Butch's family members. Being a member of Butch's NASBLA "family," I can personally say that he will truly be missed.

James and Lindsey Baker

April 30, 2003

Our deepest sympathies to Angie and the entire family.

William Engfer

April 30, 2003

On behalf of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Law Enforcement, I would like to express our deepest sympathy and regret to Butch's family. I have known Butch for many years professionally and personally. Butch will be deeply missed nationally by the boating safety community. Butch was a true friend who always left you with a smile on your face.

Kevin Kelly

April 30, 2003

On behalf of the 8th Coast Guard District I would like to send our regret and heartfelt sympathy to Butch's family. I personally will miss him greatly and was proud to be able to call him my friend.

Chris & Terri Carpenter

April 29, 2003

Butch was truly one of God's Gifts to all of us. To have the opportunity to have known him makes all of us better people. He had several important things in his life, first and foremost were his Daughters Angie and Selena, his sister Betty, and his family at Game & Fish. He had a great respect for the people of this state and always put others ahead of his own interests. His contributions to the boating public will always be remembered. I thank God for the opportunity to have Butch as a friend. He will always be in mind and never forgotten, every time a Wildlife Officer fires up a boat on Arkansas Waters he will be with us. We had many good times working together on our Lakes in Arkansas. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his wonderful family, Angie, Selena, Betty and Kim.

Debi Smalley

April 29, 2003

Butch, such a special guy. God's purpose in his life has now been fulfilled and he is now at peace without pain. He was a good friend and had a precious tender heart. Heaven is a little sweeter today and I am fortunate to have known him. To his girls and Betty "hold on to the memories of yesterday while looking forward to the promise of seeing him tomorrow". My love to you all and may God bring you now the peace of HIS Holy Spirit.



Love Debi Smalley

Barbara Mullens

April 29, 2003

Selena and Angie, I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. His love for both of you was so evident. He always seemed to be cheerful, kind and caring to everyone he met. He will be missed. In Christian Love, Barbara

Sarah Barker

April 29, 2003

In my mind, Butch was the finest example of a southern gentleman. He was kind, thoughtful and always made me smile. He deeply cared for his friends and was one of the most dedicated men I have ever known. He will be missed very much.

Roger Duren

April 29, 2003

My prayers and sympathy for Butch's family. I am with the Office of Motor Vehicle and attended meetings and worked with Butch on serveral occasions in matters related to boat registration. He was always easy to work with and always had a witty remark. I'll miss him.

Mary Hining

April 29, 2003

My prayers go out to Angie and Salena, for their father was a great man. I have lived next door to Butch for 13 years, and I will never forget his smile. Butch was the best neighbor anyone could ask for. He was always friendly and gave you your mail if it was placed in the wrong box. He will be missed, for there is no other like him.

Jerry Smith

April 29, 2003

It was a pleasure to have worked with Butch at the Little Rock Police Dept. He always had a friendly smile and kind word for everyone he met. We will truly miss you.

Cathy Turner

April 29, 2003

I am thankful that I got to meet such a wonderful man. Everytime he call my office he was always so pleasant to talk to. He will be missed by the office of Motor Vehicle Data Entry. May God bless you and your family.

Roddie Peterson

April 29, 2003

To Betty,

May the Lord keep you during this time. I pray that he comforts you with the love and understanding that only he can give.

Good bless you, Roddie

Nancy Jamerson, Retired BLA, VA

April 29, 2003

To Butch's daughters and sister, I send my sincere sympathy. The first time I met Butch at a boating conference, he immediately shared with me many stories about "his girls" whom he was so proud of and loved a great deal. He was a gentleman, a good friend and an individual you would never forget. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Charles Beaver

April 29, 2003

My condolences go out to Butch's family. Butch and I worked together with Boat Registration during his tenure at Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Butch was dedicated to his job and gave 110%. I will miss him.



Charles Beaver

Office of Motor Vehicle

Jerry Adams

April 29, 2003

Our deepest sympathy goes to Butch's family at this very sad time. He will be missed by many. His friends and associates at Missouri State Water Patrol

Marynell Branch

April 29, 2003

I was so saddened to receive notice of Butch's death. I work for Governor Huckabee as his policy advisor for Game and Fish issues. I must tell you that Butch and I enjoyed many a laugh. Even when he was in Dallas we would e-mail, usually with a funny story or joke. He seemed to always enjoy people and made me feel at home any time we were together. The last project we worked on was the development and subsequent passage this legislative session of the marine sanitation legislation.



Butch was a dear man and he will be greatly missed. I know that my life has been blessed by his brief time here on earth. Know that you and Butch will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Jeff and Gail Mayfield

April 29, 2003

It was an honor to have known Butch.Away from the AGFC office and living in the same area, we would encounter Butch at many of our neighborhood businesses. Before we would see him, we would hear, "Howdy Neighbor" and we always knew just what and who we would see; Smiling eyes and a warm greeting from a wonderful person.

Godspeed

Marcy Adams

April 29, 2003

My Prayers go out to the family. Butch was truly a wonderful person. His big smile and warm heart will be missed by many.

Randy Dill

April 29, 2003

One of the things I miss most about retirement as a conservation police officer from Connecticut and my former membership in the National Association of State Boating Law great people like Butch Potts. I know he will be sorely missed. My sincerest sympathies to his family and closest friends.

RANDY DILL

Connecticut Conservation Police/BLA - Retired

Bob Griffith

April 29, 2003

Butch will be missed,I did not know him socially, only through his tireless efforts to make boating safer. He was always there with a kind,fair,professional attitude.

May he be with God forever.

Marie Kirk

April 29, 2003

My deepest sympathy to Butch's daughters and sister. While working with Boating Safety I had the priviledge of meeting Butch and also talking to him over the phone regarding boating issues. His kindness and assistance will always be remembered.

Chris Roark

April 29, 2003

Butch was truly a great man who will be sorely missed. I am one of the fortunate ones who got to know Butch on a personal and professional level. May God bless and keep his family.

Terry West

April 29, 2003

On behalf of the Georgia Dept. of Natural Resources, I offer our condolences to Butch's family. Butch was always willing to assist me in any manner relative to our Law Enforcement endeavors. We will miss him. Our prayers are with you.

Capt. Eric Nelson

April 29, 2003

Our deepest sympathies to Butch's family, friends and fellow officers.

George Garrett

April 28, 2003

I have known Butch for more than 30 years and he was a true friend.He will be missed very much.Our sympathies and condolences to the family.

Jason & Deborah Shook

April 28, 2003

Butch was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. Our deepest sympathy to his family.

John Shanahan

April 28, 2003

Butch Potts' friendly smile and can-do attitude earned him a lot of new friends just a few years ago when NASBLA held its annual meeting in Hot Springs. Janet and I were privileged to be among them.



Butch devoted his life to serving -- and saving -- others. For all of us who work in boating safety, Butch showed us how to do it with humor, kindness and love for others.



Thanks, Butch. We'll miss you very much.



John H. Shanahan, Jr.

Boating Safety Institute of America

Boyd Hicks

April 28, 2003

A friendly smile, an outstretched hand and a kind word. That's how I'll rememember Butch. Always willing to help, Butch had dedicated his life to the service of others. May his memory be an inspiration to us all! Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Gloria Hunter

April 28, 2003

With my deepest sympathy.

Gary & Janet Jackson

April 28, 2003

Our prayers & thoughts are with you. Butch will be missed. Let us know if we can do anything.

Jim Price

April 28, 2003

It was a blessing to know Butch. He worked hard, laughed often, and loved much. Our lives were enriched by knowing Butch.

CHARLIE CLARK

April 28, 2003

I AM SADDENED BY THE LOSE OF A FRIEND, A FELLOW PROFESSIONAL AND A MAN OF GREAT CHARACTOR. OUR GOD FELT HE HAD SUFFERED ENOUGH. I WILL MISS HIM. MY HEARTFELT REGARDS TO HIS FAMILY.

Mike Fields

April 28, 2003

We are truly saddened by the loss of a great friend. May God Bless all the family, friends, and co-workers of this great fighter.



Major Charles Browning

Lt. Mike Fields

Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife

Arna Jones

April 28, 2003

Butch was a dear friend of the family. My sister use to babysit for him and I played softball with Angela. Butch was always there watching us play. He never missed a practice or game. He was a very caring and loving man and was always there to lend a helping hand. He helped my family in many ways. He was a great man and will be missed.

Angela, I live out of state and am unable to be there, but I am there in prayer and in heart.

Cindy Garrett

April 28, 2003

There are no words able to express the sadness I have in my heart for this great loss of Butch. He will truly be missed. My deepest prayers go out to the family. May God be with all of you and help you through this difficult time.

Steve Hall

April 28, 2003

Butch had a lot to offer as a friend and professional, and he'll be missed

richard livingston

April 28, 2003

on behalf of NOAA/NMFS Office for Law Enforcement, please accept our sincerest condolences

larry winn

April 28, 2003

my god bless the family.Butch will be missed

Gail Delanno

April 28, 2003

I knew Butch for 20 some odd years. He was like a big brother to me. Over the years he taught me so many things, not so much thru words, but, thru his actions. He always put his children first, they were his life. He was never too busy for his friends, and his word was solid as a rock. If he knew of anyone in need, he was there, with a helping hand, never expecting anything in return. He had such a beautiful heart, he forgave those who hurt him and continued to love them. He wasn't a quitter, he just kept getting back up, he was a fighter. He made a difference in my life and so many others. The world was a better place because of Butch. His girls are a reflection of him, therefore, we still have Butch with us and he lives on thru them. Angi and Salena, he's not gone, he's with you in spirit. Your in my thoughts and prayers.

Gail

Colonel Richard A. Murray

April 28, 2003

All of us engaged in Conservation Law Enforcement here in Massachusetts mourn the loss of such a wonderful man. Butch, was a true professional and dedicated to the protection of this nation's natural resources. Our sincerest sympathy to his family, friends and brother enforcement officers. His courage in battling the terrible disease that attacked him will long be remembered

Susan Balistreri

April 28, 2003

Butch was particularly kind to me during Gina's struggle with spinal meningitis in 1997. He phoned often to check on her condition and extended himself to me on a personal level.



A consummate professional and a truly compassionte human being. He is remembered fondly by both of us.



Our deepest sympathy to his family!

I will miss him dearly when attending future NASBLA functions.

Tod Johnson

April 28, 2003

Butch will be greatly missed both in the Law Enforcement community and as a friend. I feel priviledged to have had the opportunity to know such an honest, kind, selfless and giving person for the past six years.

Herb Angell

April 28, 2003

Our condolences to the family. Butch was a great NASBLA colleague and an all-around good guy. He will be missed by many. From all of us at The Nebraska Game & Parks Commission.

Ricky and Carol Lambert

April 28, 2003

We've had the pleasure of knowing Butch for around 20 years. He was truly a great guy with a sincere and caring heart. He will be missed by all of us. We will keep his family in our prayers.

Misty Garrett Babb

April 28, 2003

Butch was a great friend to my father, George (Jitter) Garrett. I was told that Butch treated me as one of his own. He was there on the day I was born and attended my first birthday. I still have pictures of him and my father fishing. I had a special nickname for him myself that will remain in my heart. Butch will truly be missed.

Bob Sanders

April 28, 2003

Truly one of the "good guys" and a good friend who will be missed by all who knew him.

John Donar

April 28, 2003

It has been my pleasure to work with Butch through the years as a member of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary. His professionalism and dedication to boating safety was noted this past year as he was presented an honorary life membership in the Auxiliary. As my friend, he will truly be missed.

Michael Isaacs

April 28, 2003

I was priviledged to have met Butch during a time when he was working to improve the safety of our lakes and waterways. Thank you Butch, for all you did!

Valerie Lewis

April 28, 2003

To Betty and Family,

I know you are feeling a great sense of loss, but remember Butch is in a better place. Focus on the good times knowing you have one more special angel watching over you.

Karen Hawkins

April 28, 2003

I had the opportunity of knowing Butch for just a short period of time here at AGFC. What a kind gentle man he was. Always looking out for others! May God bless during this time of sorrow and know that we will see him again!

Dixie Hendershott

April 28, 2003

My sympathy to the family. He will be missed by all.

Donny Harris

April 28, 2003

Our lives have been enriched by the influence Butch provided. God Bless the Family.

Pamela Evans

April 28, 2003

My thoughts and prayers are with Butch's family. I have worked with Betty, Kim and him for over five years now. He is definitely in a better place now. He was a wonderful, hardworking person. His family is strong and that strength will sustain them in their time of sympathy. Please let me know if I can do anything to assist you. "Remember he takes his angels first"

Greg Bomar

April 28, 2003

Many people believe that success in life has to do with things. What you have, what you own, etc. Success really has to do with who you touch, who you impact with your life. Thank you, Butch, for the impact you made on all our lives.

Bob Cushing

April 28, 2003

It has been a great pleasure working with Butch for 10 1/2 years. We went to work for the AGFC on the same day and I can truley say that I enjoyed being his friend and co-worker. Butch was dedicated to his family. When he spoke of his girls,his face would just glow and a huge smile would instantly appear on his face. I always admired the bond of love between Butch and his sister, Betty. On many occassions I have passed by his office around lunch time and there would be Betty enjoying the company of her brother.



Butch Potts will be missed by all of his co-workers at the AGFC and by all of his friends that he has made during his life.

Helen McCorkle

April 28, 2003

Butch was such a great person. I am glad that I had the opportunity to know him. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Bill and Linda Daniel

April 28, 2003

Butch will truly be missed. May God be with him.

Darcy Tisdale

April 28, 2003

I will miss Butch very much. We shared a state to state friendship for the last 5 years. I will miss his laughter & his great sense of humor. God Bless, Butch. I know you're in a better place now.

Vicki Adney

April 28, 2003

My deepest sympathy to each family member. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May God Bless you.

Don & Barbara Brader

April 28, 2003

Always sad to lose one of the AGFC family. Butch's friendly manner and willingness to help will be missed. Our condolences to all the family.

Sue Vaughan

April 28, 2003

Betty, Angela, Salena

My prayers are with you all. Please find strength and comfort in God and family. I will always have

fond memories of Butch.

Captain Ronald Morris

April 28, 2003

You will be missed in the Law Enforcement Boating field Butch. It was a pleasure knowing you and being able to work with you.

Jeffery and Genea Neel

April 28, 2003

We will miss Butch very much. His contributions to the Game and Fish Commission will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. May God comfort you and help you to make it through this difficult time.

Aimee Swaim

April 28, 2003

To the family:

I am glad that I got the opportunity to meet Butch. I have worked with Betty the last 2 1/2 years at Game and Fish. From my short time in knowing them both, I have come to know what great people they are. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. I know Butch is in a better place.

David Goad

April 28, 2003

Good-Bye Butch! You are in a better place. Your strength was relentless. We will miss you!



David Goad

Arkanas Game and Fish

Cara and Bill Gossard

April 28, 2003

Butch, you were one of our Arkansas friends and we will always remember the wondeful times together. We will catch up with you soon....Cara and Bill

Gail Strickland

April 28, 2003

Butch was a wonderful man. He fought a great battle. Butch was a very strong person. He will be missed. My prayers are with his family during this time.

Sandy Parker

April 28, 2003

We will miss Butch. He was a great person. My deepest condolences to the family. They will be in my prayers.

Barbara Dyson

April 28, 2003

Although we will miss him, I know that he is in such a better place. My sincere sympathy to the family.

Beverly Sutton

April 28, 2003

Butch was a very fine person and a great employee of the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. He will be missed by all who knew him.

James W. (Jim) Lane

April 28, 2003

I watched Butch grow up on Martin Street in Little Rock. I knew his parents, his grandmother Potts and his Uncle Novis. I also knew his Sister Betty. I have a picture of Butch when he was a little boy in our front yard on Martin street. Let me know if you want a copy of it.

Barbra Cross Mertins

April 28, 2003

I met Butch while working at Univ. Mall, he was a great person, and will be missed dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with him, and his family.

Mr. & Mrs. Richard White Dicky's Tree Service

April 27, 2003

We know Mr. Potts will be dearly missed and our prayers are with his family.

Staff of Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth Funeral Home

April 26, 2003

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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November 12, 2025

paula kindall posted to the memorial.

March 27, 2025

Paula Kindall posted to the memorial.

September 29, 2020

Paula Kindall posted to the memorial.