Gloria Potts

In Loving Memory of Gloria Potts

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Gloria Potts who left this world at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and warmth. She was a mother, a sister, a grandmother, a great-grandmother, and a dear friend to so many.

Gloria lived a life filled with deep devotion to her family, her friends, and the many beloved pets who brought her joy throughout the years. She was a woman of kindness and grace, always teaching those around her what it meant to be a good and compassionate human being. Her generosity of spirit, her beauty—both inside and out—her impeccable sense of style, and her fiery, spirited nature made her unforgettable to all who knew her.

In the 1970s, Gloria began her long-running real estate career alongside her husband and continued through 2017, when she retired after 20 years with Jim Maloof Realty. She had a deep passion for her work and cherished the relationships she built with colleagues and clients alike. Over the years, she helped hundreds of clients find homes. At the time of her retirement, she was the oldest active realtor in Peoria, a testament to her dedication and love for the profession.

She is survived by her five loving children, Steve (Cathy), Randy (Maureen), Lori Maras (Paul), Ted (Emily), and John; her cherished sister Sue Lehner (Rick), four adoring grandchildren— Brandi Bartolo, Connor Potts, Charli Potts, Andi Potts, and one great-grandchild, Parker Potts, all of whom were the light of her life. She also leaves behind a lifetime of treasured friendships and memories that will continue to inspire and guide us.

While our hearts ache in her absence, we take comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her husband Noble and loved ones who have gone before her—perhaps surrounded by the many pets she took in and cared for.

Gloria showed us all how to live with love, laughter, and compassion. She was a true firecracker, full of energy and heart, and her spirit will remain with us always.

On a personal note, as her children, we will never forget her homemade hamburger pizza-though it may sound unusual, it was absolutely unbelievable. Her roast beef, mashed potatoes, and gravy were unparalleled, and we still can't quite duplicate it. She was the queen of Thanksgiving gravy, and she and Paul would argue over it nonstop, but she always won. Her famous green salad, which I never personally cared for and Paul insisted it was desert not a side dish, will now be in Andi's hands from here on out.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the excellent staff and doctors at Carle Health for their exceptional care of our mother. This extends to the ER nurses and staff, Jodi on Crescent 5 who was always present, Tristan in ICU whose care was second to none, and everyone on Hamilton 7, as well as Brittany, Via, Gabbi, Carle hospice Kristin and Krystal, and all the student nurses. They are all true superheroes, and we will be forever grateful for their kindness and dedication.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 4, which would have been Gloria's 94th birthday, at the Contemporary Art Center (305 SW Water St., Peoria), from 1 - 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you honor her memory by committing a random act of kindness for someone in need. Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington has been entrusted with her arrangements.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.