Sydney Howard Potter

1941 - 2025

In Loving Memory of Sydney "Syd" Howard Potter of Olympia, WA, who passed away on October 5th, 2025, at the age of 83. He was born on November 20th, 1941, in Decatur, Illinois, and spent his formative years growing up in Boulder, Colorado. Syd was cherished as a son, father, husband, friend, teacher, and colleague, and his absence is deeply felt by all who knew him.

Education and Early Career.

Syd graduated from Boulder High School and furthered his passion for music at Berklee College of Music after earning a competitive scholarship. He completed his degree with a focus on trumpet, jazz, and arranging. When Syd's first child was born, he made the difficult decision to end his touring with his band of Boston jazz musicians-all of whom have since become well known-demonstrating his dedication to his family. His loved ones recognize and appreciate this sacrifice. Syd also completed Waldorf Teacher Training in Garden City, NJ, which led him to teach for many years in the Waldorf School system before ultimately returning to his first love: jazz.

Professional Life and Contributions.

In the 1980s, Syd worked as a jazz professor at Western Washington University. He later relocated to Olympia, WA, where he taught jazz at the University of Puget Sound. In addition to his academic roles, Syd played trumpet in symphony orchestras before and during his teaching career. He chose to remain in Olympia, appreciating the close-knit music community and the serene beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Syd was an integral part of Olympia's jazz scene for many decades, performing in projects such as "Size 3" and "Size 4," co-leading the Lakewood Community Jazz Band, and co-founding the TenTet ten-piece ensemble. He was known for his generosity, always providing support and mentorship to fellow musicians and those just starting out. His substantial contributions as an arranger began in his Berklee days, notably contributing to the Fakebooks published by Berklee in the 1960s, still in use today. Most of his arrangements and his extensive CD collection were donated.

Family and Personal Life.

Syd was preceded in death by his parents, Howard Potter-a veteran who served in World War II, civil engineer, and accomplished singer-and Helene Parker Potter, an accomplished violinist whose life was a testament to love and service. He also lost his two older sisters, Barbara and Patricia in the last decade, then his beloved wife, Ila Potter, in the last year. Syd and Ila shared their love of jazz, performing together in many bands and projects in Olympia.

He is survived by his first wife and mother of his children, Christina Sophia, their daughters Celia Chantal and Kira McCallum, and grandchildren Ella and Sydney.

Legacy and Remembrance.

Syd's humor, musical talent, and generous spirit are profoundly missed. His family feels honored to carry forward his musical legacy in his memory. His life, like many, was touched by struggle, heartbreak, and loss, but despite these challenges, Syd showed remarkable courage and perseverance, continuing to share his joy, creativity, and love with others.

Acknowledgements.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Envision Hospice, Kline Galland Hospice, Kline Galland Home, The Oaks at Lakewood, and Neptune Society for the compassion and care they provided during Syd's final days.

Memorial Service.

Family and friends are invited to join a musical memorial celebrating Syd's life on December 7th, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at New Traditions Cafe in Olympia, WA. Guests are encouraged to bring a dish for the potluck and their instrument for an open jazz session.