James R. Potter

James R. Potter, a beloved member of his community and a dedicated steward of the land, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on December 28, 2025, at the Pavilion on Main in Sandwich, Illinois. He was born on July 2, 1942, in Sandwich, Illinois, to John and Ruth (Jones) Potter. James lived a life full of service, hard work, and love for his family, contributing to his legacy that will be cherished by many.

A proud fifth-generation farmer, James combined his passion for agriculture, craftsmanship, and sales throughout his diverse career. He worked as a carpenter and salesman at Colonial Kitchen and Bath, but his heart always found its calling in the fields, where he was recognized as the Conservation Farmer of the Year in 1975. His commitment to sustainable farming and land stewardship resonated with those around him, and he instilled these values in others as a mentor and leader, especially his daughters lovingly nicknamed Charlie, Butch and Buster.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, James was actively involved in his community. He was a past member of the LaSalle County Pork Producers. Education was important to him, and he cherished the years he spent as part of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) during high school, an experience that shaped his views on agriculture and community.

James's interests extended beyond farming; he loved camping and traveling, with family trips focusing on visiting his grandchildren being particularly special to him. His adventurous spirit led him on journeys through the majestic landscapes of Alaska, the historic Panama Canal, and the beautiful Caribbean.

On July 20, 1963, he married Katherine Dotson at the First Church of Nazarene in Sandwich, Illinois. Together they built a family filled with love and joy. James leaves behind his loving wife, Katherine "Katy," their children, Diane (Randy) Banning, Debra Potter (Skip Fry), and Dawn (Dave) Lambert; as well as five cherished grandchildren, Sara (Ethen) Kolacny, Tyler Banning, Matt (Amanda) Lambert, and Michael (Katy) Lambert and Megan Lambert, along with their great-grandchildren, Pine, Matthew, and Derek. He is also survived by his brother, Eugene (Mary Ellen) Potter, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

James was predeceased by his parents, John and Ruth (Jones) Potter; his brother, Norman Potter; his sister, Joan Bryant; and his in-laws, Claude and Hallie Dotson.

Jim's family would like to send a very special thank you to the staff at The Pavilion on Main for their excellent care. 

His funeral services will be held on January 2, 2026, at the Turner-Eighner Funeral Home in Somonauk, Illinois. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM. James R. Potter's life was marked by hard work, love for the earth and family, and an unwavering commitment to his community, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers memorials maybe directed to Somonauk-Leland-Sandwich FFA at the Somonauk High School: 501 W. Market St. Somonauk, IL 60552 and Fox Valley Community Center in Sandwich. For more information or to sign the online guestbook go to www.EighnerFuneralHomes.com 

Turner-Eighner Funeral Home

13160 W. Rt 34 ~ P.O. Box 404 

Somonauk, IL 60552

815-498-2363