Stephen E. Potter

Stephen “Steve” E. Potter, 92 of New Gretna, NJ went home to be with our Lord on Wednesday, January 26, 2022. He was the husband of the late Minnie “Millie” Potter.  Born in New Gretna, NJ, Steve was the son of the late Stephen and Mary “Esther” (Sooy) Potter and brother of the late Leonard “Paul” Potter.  Steve served in the United States Naval Reserve for 12 years as a flight engineer, flying blimps and planes across the continental U.S. and into Mexico. He was honorably discharged on March 14, 1960.  Early in his marriage Steve was employed by the Egg Harbor Boat Co. It was here that he became a craftsman for boat building, specializing in engine and steering components. These boat building skills became a hallmark of his talents and provided him the opportunity to help build two beautiful garveys in his lifetime.  Steve grew up with his family’s love and respect for the NJ waterways. He served on the NJ Shell Fisheries Council for 26 years and was awarded the Hurley Conklin Award in 2001 for his service. His hand built garvey, the Min Kin II, is known by her beautiful sky-blue color and white cabin that can be seen gliding across the Great Bay to haul in a bushel (or more) of clams, crabs, or oysters.  Steve took a job on the newly constructed NJ Garden State Parkway in 1954 and worked there for 38 years. He began as a toll collector, but quickly advanced to Supervisor of Tolls in the Southern District Section (Woodbridge to Cape May) until his retirement in April 1992.  Steve was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his three daughters, Sheryl L. (John) Price, Linda M. (Steve) Mears, and Maureen P. (Tomi) Kane, eight grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.  Relatives and friends may call at WOOD FUNERAL HOME, 134 E. MAIN ST., TUCKERTON, N.J. on Saturday, February 5, 2022, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and are invited to attend Steve’s funeral service at 12:00 PM.  Burial will follow at Miller’s Cemetery, New Gretna, NJ.  In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization) at act.alz.org. Donations are tax-deductible.  

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