Dr. Joe Lynn Potter, beloved husband, father, grandfather, physician, and faithful servant of Christ, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, in Norman, Oklahoma. He was 77 years old.

Joe was born on December 21, 1948, in Texarkana, Arkansas, to Ernest Lloyd Potter and Iva Marie Sumrall Potter. From an early age, he carried the strong faith, steady character, and diligent work ethic that would define his life.

Joe attended Oklahoma Baptist University, where two things happened that shaped the rest of his life: he began preparing for a career in medicine, and he met the love of his life, Judy Kay Passmore. The two married on December 28, 1971, and began a life of devotion, laughter, and shared purpose that would span 54 years. After completing his degree in medicine, Joe finished his residency at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center on June 30, 1978.

Following his graduation, Joe and Judy, along with Jana, moved to Madill, Oklahoma, where they built both a life and a legacy. For the next 38 years, Dr. Potter faithfully practiced medicine, caring for generations of families in the community. To many, he was not just a physician but a trusted friend, a calm presence, and a compassionate listener.

Joe's life was defined not only by his profession but more so by his faith. Joe accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior in the summer of 1970. He was eventually ordained as a deacon on February 28, 1982, and faithfully served First Baptist Church of Madill for more than 30 years. Later, he continued his service at Southern Hills Baptist Church in Oklahoma City for another decade.

He also gave generously of his time and leadership to the community. Joe served on numerous boards and committees, including the Oklahoma Baptist University Board of Trustees, the Madill Hospital Board, the Madill ISD School Board, and the Baptist Village Communities Board. In recognition of his service and excellence, he received many honors, including the Circle of Excellence Integris Joe L. Ingram Award in 2002.

Though Joe's accomplishments were many, those who knew him best knew his heart was centered on three great loves: his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, his family, and Oklahoma Sooners football. He also found simple joy in life's quieter moments—especially mowing the lawn on his John Deere tractor.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest Lloyd Potter and Iva Marie Sumrall Potter, and his brother, Kenneth L. Potter.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Judy Kay Potter of Norman, Oklahoma; his daughter, Jana Strait and her husband Marty Strait of Longview, Texas; and his grandsons, Noah Laufer of Houston, Texas, and Samuel Laufer of Austin, Texas. Joe loved his family deeply and took great joy in spending time with them, supporting them, and taking care of whatever they needed.

Joe's life was marked by faithfulness—to his Lord, his family, his calling, and his community. His steady presence, generous spirit, and unwavering faith will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts be made to Called to Care Inc., Care of Chaplain Cathy Tisher, P.O. Box 890298, Oklahoma City, OK 73189, or to the First Baptist Church of Madill, 210 S. First St., Madill, OK 73446.

Honorary Bearers:     Wesley Landgraf, Jeff Landgraf, Justin Landgraf, Curtis Pryor, Noah Laufer, Sam Laufer