Mary Ellen Sechler Potter departed this life on June 8, 2015. Daughter of the late Mary and Marion Sechler, Mary Ellen grew up in Warren, Ohio. Mary Ellen received bachelor's degrees in flute, piano and music education from the College-Conservatory of the University of Cincinnati and a master's degree in musicology. Mary Ellen moved to Jacksonville to teach music at Jefferson Davis Middle School and to play flute in the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. It was in Jacksonville that she met Bill Potter, owner of Potter's Home of Music and a founding member of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. Bill and Mary Ellen were married in May of 1968. Mary Ellen subsequently taught flute, piano and music theory at FSCJ, what was then Florida Junior College, for nearly 40 years. A beloved professor, Mary Ellen's time at FSCJ was more than a job, it was a calling, and many of her students have gone on to become professional musicians. Bill and Mary Ellen's shared love of music helped them craft a rich life together. They were active members of San Jose Episcopal Church for many decades, where Mary Ellen was a devoted member of the choir until the day she died. Mary Ellen was also an active member of the Mandarin Historical Society, and she volunteered at the historic Mandarin Store and Post Office. Mary Ellen's positive and caring attitude and silly sense of humor helped her weather many a storm and endeared her to her family and many friends. Her beautiful spirit and smile will be greatly missed.
Mary Ellen is survived by her husband, Bill; her son, Tom; stepsons, William H Potter Jr. and Harry Potter; brother, Leslie Sechler; and sister, Judith Sechler.
Memorial donations may be made to the San Jose Episcopal Church Choral Scholars Fund. Please Sign the guestbook at www.hardagegiddensoaklawnchapel.com Hardage-Giddens, The Oaklawn Chapel, 4801 San Jose Blvd is serving the family
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