Wanda Rusie Potts
June 16, 1921 ~ July 25, 2012
Wanda Rusie Potts, 91, lifelong Mooresville resident, died July 25, 2012. Mrs. Potts was born June 16, 1921, in Mooresville, to the late Wallace “Pake” and Myrtle (Spicer) Rusie.
Mrs. Potts was a 1939 graduate of Mooresville High School. She was employed early on at the Ritz Theater, but later enjoyed a 37 year career as the Assistant Librarian at the Mooresville Public Library, retiring in 2002. She was a member of the Mooresville First Christian Church for more than 70 years. Mrs. Potts was a columnist for the Mooresville Times, writing “A Woman’s Work” for many years. She was also active in her children’s schooling, serving as PTA president and actively volunteering through the years. She was a longtime member of the Bay View Literary Club. Mrs. Potts was recognized and honored as the Mooresvillian of the Year in 1998.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Carl Richard Potts and one brother, Forest Rusie.
Survivors include her daughters, Peggy Shirar (Dave) of Mooresville, Jan Gutweiler (Jeff) of Boston, Massachusetts, and Dona Potts of Indianapolis; seven grandchildren; six great grandchildren.
The funeral service will begin at 12 Noon, Saturday, July 28, 2012, at the Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, Mooresville, with calling there from 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 27, 2012. Burial will be in the Mooresville Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the church, Friends of the Mooresville Library, or the American Heart Association. Visit www.carlislebranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.
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A town’s history is like a lighthouse, shining a community’s collective memories to guide all those sailing the seas of everyday living. Wanda was the lighthouse keeper, whose mastery of Mooresville history was unsurpassed, and who cherished and preserved the knowledge of nearly two centuries of community life here. Hers was the light that shone brightly. Thanks to Wanda’s labors at Mooresville Public Library, that history shines on, assuring modern residents a better understanding of the hometown she loved. Bill Buckley, Indiana Room Historian, Mooresville Public Library
Peggy, Jan and Dona, I was so sorry to hear about your mom. I enjoyed doing her hair while she was a resident at Westside and keeping up on Mooresville happenings with her. RIP Wanda, you will be missed by so many.
Dons I am so sorry to hear of your Mothers passing. She was always smiling and so friendly. I have fond memories of her at the library. If she knew of any one looking to buy or sell a house she always gave them my name. She was a very sweet lady and will be missed. Cecelia Tanner
One of my most favorite patients…such a blessing to be a part of her life. Her sweet spirit could light up a room. She will be missed. Prayers for her family. Emily Abernathy
We are sorry for the loss of your mom! We wanted to let you know we are thinking about you all and are praying for you! We hope to see you in the near future. Dick & Tana Shirar and Family
The family of Kay (Kate Joyner) Carr expresses their sympathy to Peggy, Jan, and Dona on the loss of their mother. Having lost Kay in May 2011, they know the sorrow of losing a wife & mother. Wanda & Kay were friends of long standing, through their school years and beyond. Norman Carr is ill himself at this time and will be unable to attend neither calling nor the funeral. Niece Susan Joyner has been tasked with getting all of your addresses for him.
I worked with Mrs. Potts at the public library through high school… that has been almost 30 years ago. The library won’t be the same without her. Sympathy to your family. Anne (Guyder) Johnson
My best to the three of you children. It is always bittersweet when a parent is older. Hope all is well with you and know that God will give you comfort.
Sorry. I meant her children.
My deepest sympathy to all of Wanda’s family. Wanda was a very kind, gentle, giving lady, smiled and laughed easily. Her efforts in sharing her knowledge of Mooresville will benefit others for many generations to come. She truly was Mooresville’s historian. I am a better person for knowing her, I feel blessed.
Wanda was Mooresville’s historian, librarian, mentor, and a gracious lady of Mooresville Indiana. Her roots are deeply woven in this county and she shared her love for the folks of Mooresville and a pride in her hometown. Wanda has left many legacies; our town’s library is symbolic of her dedication to literacy, our community, and life long learning! Wanda made the Mooresville Public Library her home away from home -1966-2002! I will miss ‘Wanda Indiana’! Diane Huerkamp, Director of Mooresville Public Library
Wanda helped my family several times a week at the library over a span of time covering 20+ years. . Her manner was gracious and charming. A smile, always in evidence, often made our day better. She was a sharing, caring, special kind of lady. She will be missed. Our deepest condolences to all family members. Robert France Family