Anthony Ross Potter ’56

Tony died Jan. 17, 2019, in Greenwich, Conn. He was born in Philadelphia in 1934 to Elizabeth and Herbert Ross Potter ’24. He graduated from Phillips Andover Academy. At Princeton Tony majored in English literature and was a member of Cottage Club. Upon graduating he served in the Navy as a lieutenant junior-grade. 

Tony led a distinguished career in journalism as a television documentary producer with NBC News in Los Angeles and New York and then with his own company, Potter Productions International, which produced documentaries for television networks and cable channels. During his career Tony traveled the world and received more than 50 major awards, including Emmys, Columbia-Duponts, and Peabodys.

He was a direct descendant of Emily Dickinson, carrying on the legacy with his passion for poetry and authoring two books. Tony’s interests included music, art, photography, film, football, and dogs — especially his cherished golden retrievers over the years. He also enjoyed spending time in California and France. A true gentleman in every sense of the word, he will be remembered for his witty sense of humor, kindness, earnestness, warmth, and caring. Most important to him was his love for and devotion to his family. 

Tony is survived by his wife of 55 years, Phyllis; children Whitney Potter and Ashley Potter Bruynes; sons-in-law John DeJesu and Jan-Paul Bruynes; and grandchildren Daphne and Henry.