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Richard Harry Potter (1861–1931)

More regret than surprise will be expressed by district residents when it is learned that Ven. Archdeacon R. H. [Richard Harry] Potter died shortly after midday on Wednesday. Deceased was born in Albury in 1861.

After receiving his primary education he was sent to Melbourne Grammar, and, later, to the Melbourne University where he obtained his M.A. degree. In 1884 he was ordained Deacon by the Bishop of Melbourne, and two years later was raised to the priesthood by the Bishop of Ballarat. Later, he served in the Melbourne Diocese at Maldon (now in Bendigo Diocese), St. Kilda, Geelong, Yarrawonga and Woodend. His next move was to Beechworth as Rector when the Diocese of Wangaratta was found ed. He was appointed Archdeacon of Wangaratta in 1902 and Rural Dean three years later.

The reverend gentleman had a long residence in Beechworth, where he was in charge for 23 years.

Four years after the death of his wife (about 12 years ago) he took charge of St. Luke's, Wodonga. For upwards of eight years he carried out his duties in a most eficient and courteous manner. He made friends among all sections of the community. Deceased was a particularly broad minded gentleman who was sincere in all his actions.

Discussing him a friend, who knew deceased intimately, said "I don't think there was ever a man more conscientous and more sincere."

Shortly before the New Year Ven. Archdeacon Potter's health gave trouble and it was necessary for him to go into hospital. From then until his death he met with reverses which were slowly but surely undermining his constitution. The end came shortly after mid-day on Wednesday. He resigned front the Ministry on 31st March last.

Deceased took a keen interest in public affairs and several times occupied the presidential chair of the Wodonga and District Progress Association. He was also keenly interested in the activities of the A.N.A.

A solemn requiem will be conducted by the Bishop of Wangaratta, with assisting priests, at St Luke's Church, Wodonga, at 10 a.m. today.

The cortege will leave for Beechworth at 11 a.m. proceeding to the church at Beechworth, where the first part of the Burial Office will be read at 12.45 p.m., after which the funeral will leave for the Beechworth cemetery.

Original publication

Citation details

'Potter, Richard Harry (1861–1931)', Obituaries Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/potter-richard-harry-15994/text27260, accessed 4 November 2024.

© Copyright Obituaries Australia, 2010-2024

Life Summary [details]

Birth

1861
Albury, New South Wales, Australia

Death

13 May, 1931 (aged ~ 70)
Wodonga, Victoria, Australia

Cultural Heritage

Includes subject's nationality; their parents' nationality; the countries in which they spent a significant part of their childhood, and their self-identity.

Religious Influence

Includes the religion in which subjects were raised, have chosen themselves, attendance at religious schools and/or religious funeral rites; Atheism and Agnosticism have been included.

Education
Occupation