John David Potts

John David Potts, 66, of Water Valley, MS, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on August 14, 2026. He was born March 25, 1960, to Ira Elton “Bill” Potts and Mary Ellen (Mixon) Potts. John David grew up on the family farm, where he developed a deep love for farm life, driving trucks, and taking care of the land and livestock. He was happiest on the family farm, where he lived his entire life. If John wasn’t working, you could usually find him on a tractor or tending to his cows.

After graduating from Water Valley High School in 1978, John David began his work career with Pete Reid. He later worked for Holley (BorgWarner) for a period of time before returning to his farming roots and working for Larry Kimzey on Kimzey Farms.

John eventually found his career in driving when he began working for Dowdle Gas and Helena Chemical in Bruce, MS. But his real passion was driving 18-wheelers. He started his trucking journey with Henry Lynch Trucking for a short time before beginning his long-term career with Merit, which later became Martin Transport. John dedicated 29 years to the company, delivering groceries out of the distribution center in New Albany, MS. In 2023, he was honored to join the 1-million-mile club after driving all those years without a single accident—a true testament to his skill, dedication, and commitment to his work.

John was one of the strongest and most determined people you could ever meet. Even during his battle with cancer, he never let it slow him down. He would go to chemotherapy treatments in the morning and climb into his rig that afternoon, chemo pump strapped to his side, making deliveries to Walmart stores throughout Mississippi. John simply didn’t believe in letting obstacles stand in his way.

Not even COVID or the ice storms could stop him. He continued to work when others were calling in, knowing that people were counting on him to deliver their groceries. That dedication was just part of who John was. He took pride in his work, cared about the people who depended on him, and always found a way to keep going. Whether he was behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler, sitting on a tractor, or tending to his cows, John was happiest when he was working.

John’s church home was Driver’s Flat Baptist Church in Calhoun County, where he attended from early childhood until his death. As per his request, a family graveside service will be held at Driver’s Flat Cemetery on August 15, 2026, where John will be laid to rest beside his parents, his brother Roy Lee “Buck” Potts, and sister-in-law Susie (Goodwin) Potts.

John was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Lewis David and Lill (McCoy) Potts and Thomas Lloyd and Sarah (Stephens) Mixon, and his brother-in-law, Clinton Richard Mooney. He also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews, as well as his Martin Transport family.

Survivors include his sisters, Mary Katherine Mooney; Brenda Sue (Michael) Snider; Linda Lou (Greg) Eanes, all of Water Valley, MS; and Martha Ruth (Carl) Massey of Banner, MS. He is also survived by his brothers, Rufus Dean “Buster” Potts, James Edward “Joe” (Judy) Potts, and Randy Potts, all of Water Valley, MS.

Memorial donations may be made to the Driver’s Flat Cemetery Fund, in care of Buster Potts, 1911 Highway 315, Water Valley, MS, 38965.