Juanita Vernell Wells Poteet

Juanita Vernell Wells Poteet, 86, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, in Amarillo, Texas, surrounded by family.

Born on September 7, 1938, in Sulphur, Oklahoma, Juanita was the sixth of eight children born to Ivie and Vernon Wells. On July 30, 1958, she married the love of her life, Gene Edward Poteet. Together, they built a legacy of love, faith and cherished memories. 

Juanita and Gene called Hereford, Texas home for 39 years. Juanita worked at Holly Sugar and Frito Lay, and was an active member of Church of the Nazarene. Her voice was often heard singing in the choir. 

In 1997, Juanita and Gene moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to be closer to their children and grandchildren. They joined First United Methodist Church where they became an active part of the Carpenters Sunday School class. Juanita loved being part of her Bible study, weekly ladies’ breakfast group and volunteering at Eugene Fields Elementary School where she became a familiar and beloved face. 

It was her role as “Granny” that brought her the most joy. The candy jars were always overflowing and the brownies were always baking. She delighted in her grandchildren and was a constant presence in their lives, attending every game, recital and event with pride. She played Mrs. Claus for many years at her grandchildren’s school bringing joy to so many. 

Juanita radiated Jesus. She never met a stranger and had a warmth that made everyone around her feel seen, welcome and loved. She will be remembered for her unwavering faith, kindness and devotion to her family and friends, competitive spirit during a game of Wahoo and her smile that lit up a room.

Juanita is survived by her beloved husband of 67 years, Gene Poteet; her brother Tommy Wells and wife Phyllis of Harrah, OK; and a large and loving family, including her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren: Kyla and James McDowell of Amarillo, TX; Tallee, John, and Charlotte Simpson of Tulsa, OK; Torree, Hein, Olivia, and Buks van der Merwe of Norman, OK; Maddee McDowell of Newport, RI; Laura and Cale McDowell of Dallas, TX; Kate and Ray Bateman of Blanchard, OK; TJ Summers and Gatlin Summers of Oklahoma City, OK; Casi and Adam Cook of Minnesota; Jerrad, Taron, and Ellie Bartlett of Wayne, OK; Walt Bartlett; Larry and Susie Poteet of Sulphur, OK; and Darrell Poteet of Sulphur, OK.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Anthony Poteet; and her siblings LV Wells, TZ Wells, Dorsey Wells, Scotty Wells, Leta O’Neal, and Mardell McClure.

Services will be held in Oklahoma.

In remembrance of Juanita’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made in her name to The Sycamore Memory Care at Park Central, 1511 South Van Buren Street, Amarillo, Texas 79101.