Marian Zehr Potts, a resident of Gibsonia, PA, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026, at the age of 88. Marian lived a remarkable and beautiful life. Raised in Pittsburgh, PA, she graduated from Oliver High School in 1956 and subsequently attended Duff’s Business Institute. Her business education led her to work as a secretary at a law firm and for the University of Pittsburgh School of Dentistry, as the title manager at Dresser Industries, and as office manager at Bank of America until her retirement.
In 1960, she met the love of her life, John Charles Potts, and they were united in marriage at the Assumption Church in Bellevue, PA. Together they raised four children and enjoyed a fulfilling life together for 63 years.
Marian was a vibrant individual who cherished staying active, sharing engaging stories, and embracing life surrounded by friends, family, her children, and grandchildren. In her younger years she found joy in running, which helped her cope with the challenges of raising four children. She continued to run into her 50s, completing several half marathons. When not running, Marian could often be found at a gym or on a golf course, having held the position of President of the North Park Ladies Golf Club. Furthermore, she devoted her time to volunteering, assisting at the Crisis Center North (suicide hotline), the Women’s Guild at Saint Kilian Church, and the North Hills Women’s Shelter.
A spirited soul, Marian thrived in the company of others, and her presence energized those around her. She was known for her warm smile and her ability to engage and laugh with everyone she met.
Affectionately known as “Grandy” by her 10 grandchildren, Marian cherished every opportunity to connect with them and stay informed about their lives. She never missed a chance to participate in their milestones, whether it was a birthday celebration, piano recital, ballet performance, tennis match, softball tournament or any other event that allowed her to bond with her grandchildren. She was indeed a wonderful Grandy!
Marian is survived by her children John Gregory Potts (Heather Gresh), Laurie Ann Foster (Edmund), Janice Crookshank (Daniel), and Stephen Potts (Heather Whitefield); her grandchildren Jack Potts, Tanner Potts, Alexandra Foster, Kate Jackson (Watson), Abigail Crookshank, Andrey Crookshank, Zachary Crookshank, Kalina Potts, Tristan Potts, and Tyler Potts; sister Barbara Sullivan (Michael) and sister-in-law Judy Zehr. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Potts, and her siblings Charles Zehr, Alice Berie (Jack), Robert Zehr, James Zehr, and William Zehr.
We extend our gratitude to RidgeCrest at Cranberry Woods Memory Care Unit for their exceptional care, and to Bridges Hospice for their outstanding support and communication, and for upholding our mother’s dignity.
A funeral Mass will take place at 11 am on March 23, 2026 at Saint Kilian Parish Church, also known as St. Mark the Evangelist Parish, located at 7076 Franklin Rd., Cranberry Twp, Pa 16066
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Marian at www.alz.org.