Ronald W. Poteat Sr. peacefully passed away on March 18, 2020 at 84 years of age. He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Linda Poteat, who shared his life adventure and cared for him with enduring love and compassion, and sons, Ron Poteat Jr. and Russell Poteat.
Ronald was born in Caswell County, N.C. on February 9, 1936 to George Albert and Cora Bryant Poteat. Ron retired from the US Army as Command Sergeant Major after a distinguished 23-year career that included overseas service in France, Vietnam, and Germany.
After an additional career in the Redstone Arsenal Base Housing Office, he enjoyed a fulfilling and active retirement that included travel with wife Linda. Ron and Linda loved to explore our beautiful nation and embarked on numerous, extended driving tours of the U.S., taking every opportunity to see the beauty of the country that he loved and served so well. He was a life-long racing fan, enjoyed taking great care of their beautiful home and gardens, and had an infectious sense of humor which will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
In addition to his wife and sons, Ron is survived by daughter-in-law, Shari Poteat; son-in-law, Bob Palmatier; three grandchildren, Lauren Poteat Lambert, David Poteat, and Laura Self Burton; and five great-grandchildren, Austin Lambert, Gage Lambert, Alley Burton, Rowe Burton, and Kate Burton. Ron was “Little Papa” to all his grandchildren whom he loved with all his heart and they adored him.
Given current conditions surrounding virus transmission risk, the family has elected to not have a memorial service at this time and will schedule one at a future date. Those wishing to make a contribution in Ron’s memory are encouraged to consider the American Heart Association or the Huntsville Hospital Foundation.
