John Pottenger ’71

    Our most accomplished and respected classmate Jay died Feb. 23, 2023, after a lengthy bout with urologic cancer, stating in 2021: “My health has serious challenges. I do not fear death. That is not attributable to faith, but to joy. I am grateful.”

Jay completed college prep at Pittsburgh’s Shady Side Academy. At Princeton, he was active in campus politics (class officer and UGA). He graduated with honors in urban affairs at SPIA, lived in Edwards all four years, loved playing bridge, was a member of Terrace, and impressed with his loyalty and enthusiasm.

Jay was a fixture at Yale Law School for 40 years, as a student and then a faculty member with an endowed professorship. His community activism (prisoner rights and low-income housing) and devotion to clinical teaching so endeared him to the law school that it closed the day of his memorial service.

In his second marriage in 1986, he found his life partner in Sue Wharfe. They were blessed with Will (born in 1994) and twins, Emma and Jack (1996). Jay always prioritized support for his children’s activities, especially tennis and soccer, and served on numerous nonprofit boards. Jay was an avid fan of the Liverpool Football Club, the Steelers, and the White Sox. He served Princeton as a regional officer, ASC interviewer, and Annual Giving solicitor.

To his family and many friends and admirers, the class extends its condolences.