Wilmer "William" James Potter

Wilmer James Potter Jr. (William) was born November 13, 1956 to Alicia Marie Stiles and Wilmer James Potter Sr in Mahopac, NY, marking him child number 4 of what would become 8.

Later, the family found themselves in Whitehall, NY. As he grew, he spent time at Notre Dame des Victoires Church where he became a proud alter boy from ages 10 to 13. William went by many names, but he was most affectionately known as “Billy” in his younger years. As most know, he didn’t really like Wilmer, and he would let you know that.

As he grew into a young man, he found his way to the Navy, where he would later branch over and join the Army. Through his time in the service, he went everywhere from Cuba to Texas, and then was later stationed in Lakehurst, NJ. It was there that William met Mary Badon and created a family of their own, to which they settled down in Pemberton, NJ. They welcomed their first child, Stephanie Lee, in February of ‘78. The two married April 29th,1978, and two years later, they welcomed a baby boy, Jesse James.

William was a custom home builder who later found his love for food and would also be known as great chef, finding employment at various restaurants. He was an avid Dale Earnhardt Sr. fan and loved his New Orleans Saints football team. Living a life of building and cooking, he made friends everywhere he went.

In 1991, William returned to NY and eventually made a home in Lake George. he was so full of spunk, quick wit, and great laughs. Known for his many jokes, made-up songs, and if you were his friend, he made up a nickname for you in the blink of an eye. This resulted in his friends warmly referring to William as “Pill Botter”. The many names of William continued, but as his family became larger, one would fit him perfectly- Poppop. Born to his daughter were 5 children and 1 to his son. Being a grandfather was where he found his happiness. Continuing the gift of nicknames, he bestowed one to each grandchild, each of whom adored him with all their hearts. Memories of playing ToonTown, snowball fights, his cooking, and his athletic abilities will forever be cherished and ingrained in our hearts.

In his later years, you would find him in front of his computer, blasting music from various artists; The Marshall Tucker Band, Warren Zevon, Bob Segar, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and his favorite, Frank Zappa. William had a way that always brought people together. It truly was never a dull moment, always equipped with a smile and a joke.

On August 18th, 2023 William was called home. He is predeceased by his mother and father, Alicia and Wilmer Sr; brothers; Gary, Wayne, Bobby and sister Wilma; son Jesse James Potter, and more of his loving angels. William is survived by his daughter, Stephanie Lee (Anthony), grandchildren; Cheyenne, Savannah, Anaiyah, Ricky, Vanessa, and Xavier, great-grandchildren; Luca, Mateo and Leilah, sisters; Bonny (Bob) and Rayanne (Jay) Round Frasier, and his brother Paul Round (Jo-Ann) and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends, all of whom are saddened by his loss. William (Poppop) will be deeply missed. We are heart broken, and we will not be the same without you. Rest in paradise.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at a later date.

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