Ronald Ernest Potts

Ronald Ernest Potts, 71, passed away in Williamsburg, VA on August 14, 2021. He is preceded in death by his parents, William Spencer Potts and Helen Margaret (Letjekides) Potts; grandson, Tyler Whipkey; and a multitude of historical figures he passionately researched and wrote about. Rattling off historic facts came naturally to Ron, and he could often be found sharing his knowledge with those that worked and passed through Colonial Williamsburg. He told stories with such affection, his humorous anecdotes captivated his audience, leaving them wanting to learn more. Ron’s dedication and passion to his job and research was something many strive for. If you didn’t see him at the Magazine, he would be at his desk reading, researching, or writing. That research led him to author more than twelve volumes of historical books on those that came before him and shaped our nation, as well as a detailed history of gunpowder. Ron wasn’t afraid to correct misconceptions and erroneously reported facts, he once calmly explained to an NRA instructor that gun powder is not, in fact, an explosive, but rather a propellant, (the NRA has since updated their training materials to concur with Ron’s argument!) For Ron learning, teaching, and creating was what kept him motivated while his humble giving nature; both in creative tangible gifts and in sharing his knowledge, is what left a lasting and memorable legacy among all who knew him. Prior to his second career in Colonial Williamsburg, Ron spent over 30 years as a blacksmith traveling around the US sharing his handmade historical re-creations with countless households. He enjoyed traveling, going to Disney and other amusement parks, watching movies and thinking up better endings, and constantly learning. He also loved reciting quotes including one that summed up his approach by one of his favorite historical figures: “We must trust to nothing but facts: these are presented to us by nature and cannot deceive. We ought, in every instance, to submit our reasoning to the test of experiment, and never to search for truth but by the natural road of experiment and observation.” – Antoine Lavoisier, 18th century French Chemist Survivors include partner, Kathy Lantz; daughter, Christina Louise (Potts) Whipkey and son-in-law Clayton Whipkey; son, William Ernest Potts and daughter-in-law Sherrie (Legge) Potts; step-daughter, Sarah Blasier; grandchildren, Harrison Whipkey, Lexie Potts, McKinley Whipkey, Reagan Whipkey, Kennedy Whipkey, Carter Whipkey, Elena Potts, Jackson Whipkey, Kara Potts, Colton Potts, sister, Judy Potts; and his Colonial Williamsburg Family. A Remembrance will be held in the chapel at Rose Hill Memorial Park Cemetery, 3655 Wales Ave NW, Massillon, OH 44646 on Saturday, September 4th, 2021 at 11AM. Online condolences may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com.