Photo courtesy of James A. McAlister Funerals & Cremation
Charleston, South Carolina
Feb 21, 1941 – May 2, 2019 (Age 78)
Charleston Artist Tom Potocki spent his life creating and spreading beauty wherever he went. His life ended by natural causes on Thursday, May 2, 2019, at the age of 78.
A complex and renowned artist, Tom spent his last days in his studio with a paintbrush in his hand, doing what he loved. Spending every day laboring over his thoughts, never-ending inspiration and cultivating the creative process wherever “it” led him, he was an inspiration to us all, both artists and admirers alike. He will be remembered for generations to come by the many creations made by his hand which remain in both private and public collections throughout the country.
In addition to his art, Tom was a great lover of nature. His happiest times were spent in Her presence, feeding the birds and wild animals that seemed somehow drawn to his loving and gentle nature.
Tom is survived by his wife, Debra (Engelskirger) Potocki, and by Blue, his faithful Golden Retriever who was always by his side. He also leaves behind three sons by a prior marriage; Eric (Michelle Maiers) of Minneapolis, MN; Alex (Hisano) of Japan; and Kurt (Michela) of Lancaster, PA, along with five grandchildren.
Those who were privileged to know and love him will miss him beyond words.
Services will be private.
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Tom created such beautiful work ! He will be
missed in the art world so very much .
Debbie Martin
September 07, 2019 | 623 Bluff Pointe, SC | Friend
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
May 12, 2019 | GA
Debbie, please know that you are in our prayers.
Bob and Amy Haley
May 12, 2019 | Charleston, SC
Eric and family, My deepest sympathy in the passing of your dad. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Jennifer (Culver) Gourley
May 07, 2019 | Cambridge Springs, PA
My sincere sympathies to you Debbie, on the passing of your dear husband. Love, Sue Spears Cyphert.
May 06, 2019
I was so happy to stumble upon Tom's Charleston gallery while visiting the city in February. I was privileged to know him and Deb during their time in North East, PA. His friends and admirers will remember him as a gentle, thoughtful, funny and creative soul who touched our spirits through his art. His gifts will be misses. My sympathy to Deb and his family.
Sonia Fails
May 06, 2019 | North East, PA
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will miss you Tom. Our prayers are with you.
Holly Bell-Victor
May 05, 2019 | Mount Pleasant, SC | Friend
Tom advertised in a magazine I work on. His paintings have always been so beautiful and he's been wonderful to work with. Praying for the family during this time.
Kellie Frissell
May 05, 2019 | Stockbridge, GA
I knew Tom quite well. He was thoughtful, funny, smart, well read, and always a pleasure to be around. I have some of his work in my house, both sculpture and paintings, and will always cherish every piece. I visited his studio in Charleston several times and it was always an experience. Tom was creative beyond description and always had a few fascinating pieces underway in the studio, never in a rush to get something out the door until he felt he had put as much thought as needed into...
Carol Riper
May 05, 2019 | Franklin, PA | Family