Ken Potts

March 20,1944 – September 1, 2026

Kenneth Lawrence Potts, born March 20, 1944, in southern Illinois, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones after a long battle with Parkinson's disease.

Although Kenny proudly called St. Francisville his original home, he made Rantoul his permanent home for 58 years.

A man of steady character and enduring kindness, Kenny leaves behind a legacy of hard work and devotion to his family, friends and the Rantoul community. He is survived by a family who will miss his guidance and strength.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Lawrence and Iona Potts and he leaves behind a sister, Virginia Berry of St. Francisville, and a brother, David (Dinah) Potts of Piggott, AR, along with many extended family members.

After high school, right out of the gate, Ken joined the Air Force, then began a successful career in telecommunications, finally retiring in 2012.

He and his devoted wife Carol (Beeler) Potts spent 60 years together, and raised three children, Janet (Richard) McGuire, Jeffrey (Lee Ann) Potts, and Brian (Keli) Potts.

In later years, he delighted in twelve grandchildren: Hayley Huff(Stefan Poelz), Joanna (Mike) Howard, Hillary Booso, Jacob(Ann) Potts, Seth Potts, Jeffrey(Emillie)Huff, Devin (Samantha) Hinners, Isabel Potts, Andrew Potts, Mikayla Potts, Audrey Potts, Nicholas Potts and four great-grandchildren: Hazel Jo Booso, Parker Potts, Carter Hinners, Penelope Potts.

Those who knew Kenny well, will remember him for his quiet manner and his wry sense of humor. And of course, he relished in the friendly competition of ‘Best Fan’ between friends and family, always cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals.

Whether he was pursuing a lifelong hobby, like woodworking, or proudly coaching 3&4th graders the elements of basketball at St. Malachy, or spending time with family or enjoying drag racing, bowling, or golf or traveling with friends, he approached life with a sincere heart and would always be willing to lend a hand to those in need. Over his lifetime, he wore many hats and he was happy to wear them all with pride.

Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral Mass at St. Malachy Catholic Church in Rantoul, on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. Visitation will be held from 10-11am. Mass will begin at 11am. Ken will be interred at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery in Rantoul.

The family asks that memorial gifts be directed to the Henry J. Smith Charitable Foundation for St. Malachy School or the donor's choice.

Please join Ken's family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Funeral arrangements have been made at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Lux Chapel 1551 E. Grove Ave. Rantoul, IL. 61866.