The Rev. Taylor Potter, well-known for his work in Presbyterian mission in Thailand, died Dec. 6. He was 84.
A native of Centre Hall, Penn., Potter earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Pennsylvania State University and a master of divinity from San Francisco Theological Seminary.
He spent many decades overseas, serving as a pastor and an architect with the Church of Christ in Thailand. He also served as an architectural consultant for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), consulting in more than 40 countries and developing more than 20 projects. He also served schools and congregations in California, Oregon, Alaska, Pennsylvania and Hawaii.
He is survived by his wife, Betty Jo, his children Terry of Pullman, WA; Dee Ann (Wylie) of State College, PA; Lance of Chiang Mai, Thailand; and Taylor of North Bergen, NJ; eight grandchildren; his sister Eleanor of Melbourne, FL; his brother Bill of Melbourne, FL; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
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The Rev. William (Bill) Hopper Jr., a Presbyterian leader and missionary, died Dec. 12. He was 85.
Born in Birmingham, Ala., Hopper was the son of a preacher. He served as a missionary in Iran and Pakistan. He also served the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) at many levels, including local congregations, presbytery, synod and General Assembly, where he led commissioner training.
Hopper was passionate about justice and equality and was active in the Witherspoon Society (now part of Presbyterians for Justice), More Light Presbyterians, the Covenant Network of Presbyterians and was a supporter of That All May Freely Serve.
His wife, Mollie, of 62 years predeceased him last year. He leaves behind three daughters, Laura, Jane and Mary Ann, plus three grandsons and one great grandson.