David Wayne Potter, 75, went to be with his eternal Lord and Savior on July 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Florida. David was born in Pikeville, KY on October 13, 1950, to the late James Walter Potter and Nancy Telford Potter. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Brian M. Potter.

David is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 37 years, Devonnia McQueen Potter; his daughter, Kristen Westlake, and her husband, Brian, of La Quinta, California; his daughter, Stephanie Ramsey, and her husband, Brian, of Sarasota, Florida; seven cherished grandchildren, Conor Murray, Alexandra Ramsey, Daxton Westlake, Poet Westlake, Vann Westlake, Victoria Ramsey, and Catherine Ramsey; and one beloved great-grandson, River Murray; his brother Derek J. Potter, and his wife Kolleen, his sister in law, Nancy W. Potter, his brother Michael L. Potter, and his wife Hilda; and six nieces and nephews.

David attended Elkhorn City High School as a member of the Class of 1969. He later earned a degree in Business Administration from the University of Kentucky, where he was a proud member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and graduated with the Class of 1973. A longtime resident of Lexington, Kentucky, David built a life filled with lasting friendships and cherished memories. In later years, he also enjoyed living in Florida, where he embraced the sunshine, the water, and the opportunity to create many more treasured moments with family and friends.

David was a gifted athlete who loved sports throughout his life. He played football and golf and was an avid cyclist. He especially loved his cycling club, where he enjoyed planning rides and treasured the friendships he made along the way. Whatever sport he pursued, David approached it with dedication, determination, and a drive to excel.

David was also an exceptional cook—many would say a chef. Family and friends knew that an invitation to dinner at David's home meant far more than a meal; it meant an unforgettable dining experience prepared with care, creativity, and love.

David loved being on the water and cherished time spent boating with his beautiful bride aboard their boat. Captaining his vessel with his beloved first mate by his side, surrounded by family and friends, was his idea of a perfect day.

Professionally, David began his successful career in the family-owned business as a coal operator and producer. Later, David worked for Teco Coal for 23 years and served as Vice President of Metallurgical Coal Sales. He loved his work and was deeply passionate about the coal industry. Colleagues described David as a straight shooter—a man who conducted his career with integrity, worked tirelessly, and was driven to succeed.

David was actively involved in both his profession and his community. He was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church in Lexington, Kentucky, a University of Kentucky Fellow, and a member of Greenbrier Golf & Country Club in Lexington, Kentucky since 1978, as well as Gulf Harbour Yacht & Country Club in Fort Myers, Florida. Throughout his distinguished career, he was an active member of the New York Coal Trade Association, the Hampton Roads Coal Association, and the Lexington Coal Exchange, demonstrating his commitment to leadership and the advancement of the coal industry.

Above all, David treasured his family, friends and the time he shared with them. His faith, generosity, warmth, and love for others will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will carry his memory with them always.

Funeral and Visitation Funeral Service will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 2:00pm at Bailey Funeral Home, 112 Elkhorn Street, Elkhorn City, Kentucky 41522. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 12:00-2:00pm prior to the funeral service to greet the family and share memories.

Burial will follow the service at Johnson Memorial Cemetery Mausoleum, 163 Johnson Cemetery Road, Pikeville, Kentucky 41501

Celebration of Life A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 2-5pm at Greenbrier Golf & Country Club, 2179 Bahama Road, Lexington, Kentucky 40509. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor David's life, share cherished memories and celebrate the legacy he leaves behind.