Rev. James B. Potter was born August 12, 1825, and died May 25, 1904. Brother Potter first saw the light of day more than three-quarters of a century ago on the site where Liberty, in Clay County, Missouri, is now located. He moved with his parents to a tract of land about a mile east of Turney, Missouri, in 1837. Here he grew to manhood and assisted his parents in building for themselves a home.

At the age of twenty he was married to Miss Temperance Matthew on Nov. 27, 1845 in a ceremony performed by Miner Daniels M.G., Methodist Episcopal Church South. He lived with her about eight years until she died. Of this union four children were born, all of whom are dead.

Brother Potter's second marriage was to Miss Margaret Ann Doak of Sullivan County, Missouri, in September 1855 with whom he lived until the day of his death. Of this union eleven children were born. Ten of the children are now living and one is dead.

Brother Potter encountered all the hardships of the pioneer's life. In 1837 there were but ten settlers in Clinton County; therefore he lived to see the country redeemed from the virgin soil to a high state of cultivation. He witnessed the progress of Missouri until she ranks fifth place in the Union. The limit of Brother Potter's religious career was about sixty-four years. He was converted and united with the Methodist Church in 1840. He was licensed to preach in early life; his life of devotion and labor was in the interest of humanity and the glory of his Savior. He traveled and preached the gospel ten years and during his stay on earth he witnessed hundreds, if not thousands, of conversions.

He no doubt enjoys the company of many who went before him to the glory land. One church at Turney, his home church, is a monument of his labor and devotion. He was the pastor's friend, his home the preacher's home, and his presence the preacher's inspiration. Brother Potter was respected by all and he left behind him a holy influence that will never die. Sister Potter, his wife, abides to this day, May 15, 1907, and is active in the work of her church at Turney and in many good causes. One of her daughters is the wife of Rev. C. B. Campbell, and all of their children are doing well. God bless the memory of Brother Potter, and may His blessing be with the widow.

--Pioneer Methodism in Northern Missouri