Some of you will remember Harry Potts, and many may not. What you might remember was back in the early 2000s B.A.S.S. sponsor boats were towed to tournament sites for pros to use during the final rounds. Those rigs were pulled by a group called “the dirty dozen.” They were men who loved the sport of bass fishing and being around all the pros, staff, sponsors and fans. Their leader was Harry Potts from Ozark, Ala.
Harry was a veteran who was proud of his service to our country. He was a recipient of two bronze stars and one Purple Heart. He had a soft spot in his heart for the men and women of our armed forces and those who served. Many of us got to know Harry and his wife, Elaine, as we traveled the country. They were great folks.
I fondly remember one time my wife, Mary, traveled with me to an event on Table Rock Lake. One night Harry, Elaine, Mary and I attended an Andy Williams show in Branson. Now that is certainly as “old folks” as you can get, but we had a great time. There were many other good times spent with Harry, Elaine and all those great folks — fond memories.
In addition to towing rigs for B.A.S.S. he also competed from time to time as a co-angler. Harry was quite an angler with many great finishes capped by once winning a fully rigged Triton bass boat.
Harry passed away Dec. 13 after an extended illness. His service will be Thursday, Dec. 15, at First United Methodist Church in Ozark, Ala.
Harry loved his country, his family and all of his bass fishing buddies. We appreciate his service to our country and his friendship.
On behalf of B.A.S.S., rest in peace “old friend.”