Norma 'Tommie' Hart (Storie) Potter, 79, Passes Away

Beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother remembered for her compassion and impact on many lives.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Norma 'Tommie' Hart (Storie) Potter, a longtime resident of Stafford, Virginia and Alpine Lake, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026 at the age of 79. Norma was the youngest daughter of Lawrence and Emma Storie of Roan Mountain, Tennessee and graduated from East Tennessee State University in 1968 before earning two master's degrees. She is survived by her husband, two sons, three grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and several siblings.

Why it matters

Norma's passing marks the loss of a beloved community member who touched many lives through her compassion, kindness, and dedication to her family. Her life story reflects the changing times and educational opportunities for women in the latter half of the 20th century.

The details

Norma was born in Banner Elk, North Carolina on March 1, 1947 and married her husband Albert 'Pete' Eugene Potter in 1968 after his return from serving in the Vietnam War. She went on to earn master's degrees from Boston University and the University of Southern California. Norma is survived by her immediate and extended family, including her husband, two sons, three grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and several siblings.

  • Norma was born on March 1, 1947 in Banner Elk, North Carolina.
  • Norma graduated from East Tennessee State University in 1968.
  • Norma married Albert 'Pete' Eugene Potter on June 7, 1968.
  • Norma passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026 at the age of 79.

The players

Norma 'Tommie' Hart (Storie) Potter

A longtime resident of Stafford, Virginia and Alpine Lake, West Virginia who passed away at the age of 79. She was the youngest daughter of Lawrence and Emma Storie of Roan Mountain, Tennessee.

Albert 'Pete' Eugene Potter

Norma's husband of over 50 years, who served in the U.S. Army and was deployed to Vietnam.

Lawrence and Emma Storie

Norma's parents from Roan Mountain, Tennessee.

Eric Potter

One of Norma's two sons, married to Rebecca Roush.

Christopher Potter

Norma's other son, married to Shanon Grimes.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Norma Potter's life was defined by her deep love for her family, her commitment to education, and her compassion for others. Her passing is a loss felt by all who knew her and were touched by her kindness and generosity over the decades.