John Calvin Potts Jr.

John Calvin Potts, 93, passed away on September 28, 2026, surrounded by family after a long life defined by devotion, service, and love. Born March 14, 1933, in Martinsburg, WV, he excelled in sports at Martinsburg High School, serving as the Bulldogs’ quarterback. It was there he met his high school sweetheart, Peggy Myers, whom he married in 1955. Together they shared 71 years of marriage marked by unwavering commitment and love.

John attended Shepherd University before entering Naval Officer Candidate School and Navy Flight Training in 1953. After earning his wings, he served as an officer and pilot in the United States Marine Corps, flying missions in Korea. He later returned to Shepherd to complete his B.S. in Business Administration in 1960 while leading the Rams as their quarterback.

He continued his military service as a pilot in the United States Air Force, flying support missions in Vietnam with the West Virginia Air National Guard, and later serving with the Pennsylvania Air National Guard until 1973. Throughout his career he flew numerous aircraft, including the A-1 Skyraider, the Constellation, and the F-86 Sabre.

John built a distinguished career in the glass industry, beginning at Steuben Glass Works in New York. He later joined Corning Glass Works in New York and Virginia, and ultimately served as Plant Manager and Vice President of Manufacturing at Lenox Crystal in Mt. Pleasant, PA. After retiring, he owned Treasured Editions in Jeannette, PA, producing commemorative glassware. His work took him around the world deepening his appreciation for craftmanship and culture.

For more than 40 years, John and Peggy lived in Greensburg, PA where he was an active member of Maplewood Presbyterian Church, serving as Finance Committee Chair. John enjoyed weekly Chick‑fil‑A lunches with his church group, playing golf with many friends, wood carving, and tending to his garden. He cherished his family’s annual trips to Hilton Head Island, a tradition that began when his children were young and grew to include spouses and grandchildren. These gatherings created lasting memories the entire family will forever treasure.

In recent years, John and Peggy moved to North Carolina to be closer to family. He became a member of Mallard Creek Presbyterian Church, where he continued to find community and fellowship.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Anne Potts, and his sisters Diane Wyand and Yvonne Frankenberry. He is survived by his beloved wife Peggy; his brother Martin Potts; his children Melinda Noe (Brad), Tracey Morelli (Greg), and Mark Potts (Kari); grandchildren Spenser Noe (Alanna), Kaitlyn Noe, Amanda Morelli, Grace Morelli, Emili Potts, and Maggi Potts; great‑grandson Silas Noe; and many nieces and nephews.

John lived a life of purpose, courage, and devotion to his country, his craft, his faith, and above all, his family. His legacy endures in the memories he created, the values he instilled, and the love he shared so generously.

The family will receive friends Monday, October 5, 2026, from 4–6 p.m. at Kepple-Graft Funeral Home, Greensburg, PA. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Maplewood Presbyterian Church, Greensburg, PA. Everyone please go directly to the church.  Interment will follow at Westmoreland County Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s memory to American Cancer Society or  Alzheimer's Association .