Tommy Garland Potts, Sr.

Tommy Potts Sr. was born September 25, 1942, in Nashville, TN. He passed away on February 18, 2026, at the age of 83, surrounded by family and hospice nurse, Carol Wilson RN.

He performed forty years of service as a member of the Nashville Fire Department (1964-2004) and eventually held the highest rank of Captain. He was a 32nd degree Mason, Shriner, Scottish rite, and a member of the Elks & Moose Lodges.

He enjoyed woodworking making stools, bird houses, and rocking horses for friends and family. He loved spending time with his beloved wife on the lake on their houseboat with many friends and family.

He made many memories spending time with granddaughters during summers, and they now have the fondest memories of him pulling them around in the field behind the lawnmower in the little red wagon.

He is preceded in death by parents Mama & Papa Potts, loving wife Ellen Gletha of 46 years, son Jeffrey Allen (surviving wife Shannon), granddaughter Brandi Troutt, and great-grandson Jayden.

He is survived by siblings Bob (Myrna deceased), and Joy Presley (Don deceased), son Tommy Jr (Shellie), granddaughters Lyndsie Clark (Andrew), Erica Potts, Shandie Crow, Allie Potts, and Tiffani Fleming (Thomas). Great grandchildren: Nathan, Macie, Jayla, Thomas III, Peyton, Connor, Camden, Jaxon, Mason, Maddon, Rhylee, Sebastian, and Harmoni. In addition, his adopted family and neighbors Jesus and Antonia Romero and family, as well as many friends and loved ones.

Visitation will be held at Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens funeral home on Wednesday February 25, 2026, 10am-2:30pm, followed by Graveside service officiated by Mike Potts.