Gary Francis Potts

Gary Francis Potts, 68, passed away on Wednesday, April 4, 2018 at Baystate Medical Center. He was born in Pittsfield, MA to the late Harold F. and Dorothy F. (Anderson) Potts. Gary was a graduate of East Coast Aero Tech. He worked in aviation since the age of 15, and soloed on his 16th birthday.  Gary was a commercial pilot, with single engine, multi engine and instrument ratings. He was the founder of AirFlyte Inc. and was the CEO for over 25 years. Recently Gary was recognized by the FAA, receiving the Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award and the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award for having no flight or maintenance incidences for 50 years.  He was also instrumental in helping establish the Aviation Program at the Westfield Technical Academy. Gary was a long time member and former Governor of the Westfield MA Chapter of the Quiet Birdmen. He enjoyed collecting and restoring antique cars and motorcycles, and was a licensed HAM radio operator for over 50 years.  Gary loved spending time on Lake Winnipesaukee with his family and friends.  He led a busy life but his family was always his priority.  Gary is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Judy A. (Negri) Potts of Southwick, his loving children, Laura E. Woods and her husband Adam of Suffield, CT and Brian F. Potts and his wife Katie of Granby, CT, his siblings, Darlene F. Utzinger and her husband Richard of Southwick, Harold “Buddy” Potts, Jr. and his wife Annie of Westfield and Frank M. Potts and his wife Charlene of Southwick, his cherished grandson Everett F. Woods and many nieces and nephews. All services will be private.  Anyone wishing to join the family for a celebration of Gary’s life may do so at the former AirFlyte (Rectrix) maintenance location (32 Airport Drive, Westfield) between 5pm and 7pm on Tuesday, April 10th. Gary received many blood and platelet transfusions, as well as a bone marrow transplant.  In his memory his family asks those who can to please donate through the Red Cross and consider joining the national bone marrow registry so others may benefit. Contributions in Gary’s name may be directed to Angel Flight NE, 492 Sutton St. North Andover, MA 01845. www.firtionadams.com

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