Beloved Mother and Educator Norma “Tommie” Hart Potter Passes Away

Norma “Tommie” Hart (Storie) Potter, a cherished mother and accomplished educator, died peacefully on February 12, 2026, at the age of 79. She resided in Stafford, Virginia, and Alpine Lake, West Virginia, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication to her family and community.

Born on March 1, 1947, in Banner Elk, North Carolina, Norma was the youngest daughter of the late Lawrence and Emma Storie of Roan Mountain, Tennessee. She graduated from East Tennessee State University in 1968 and later pursued further education, earning two master’s degrees from Boston University and the University of Southern California. Norma’s academic achievements reflected her commitment to lifelong learning and her passion for education.

On June 7, 1968, Norma married Albert (Pete) Eugene Potter, shortly after his enlistment in the U.S. Army and a two-year deployment to Vietnam. Their enduring partnership was marked by shared experiences and deep affection. Norma is survived by her husband, Pete, and their two sons, Eric, married to Rebecca Roush, and Christopher, married to Shanon Grimes.

The family expanded to include three grandchildren: Dustin, who married Katlyn Caroll; Christopher Brett, who married Sarah Price; and Ericka, who married David Oliver. Norma also cherished her nine great-grandchildren, affectionately referred to as her “little sweeties”: Carl, Christopher, Denton, Elizabeth, Hazel, Rose, Ivy, Olivia, and Sophia.

In addition to her immediate family, Norma is survived by her brother, Leslie, married to Cathy Freeman, her sister, Kate, married to Glen Harrison, and several supportive sisters-in-law: Bell Bennett, Paula Potter, and Rita Storie. She was beloved by numerous nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, friends, neighbors, and coworkers, all of whom played significant roles in her life.

Throughout her life, Norma touched many hearts with her kindness and generosity. Her family emphasized that she loved everyone deeply and brought joy to those around her.

Norma’s siblings, Ronald, Bill, Dennis, Jim, Francis, and Dessa, predeceased her, and she now joins them in eternal rest.

In accordance with her wishes, the Arthur H. Wright Funeral Home, located at 105 Highland Ave., Terra Alta, West Virginia, will oversee her cremation services. A memorial service celebrating her life will be scheduled at a later date in Tennessee.

Family members invite those wishing to express their condolences to do so online at the funeral home’s website: www.arthurwrightfuneralhome.com.