Esther Annette Poteat

Esther Annette Poteat, 63, of Fayetteville, gained her heavenly healing on Monday, April 14th, 2025. 

Born on February 7th, 1962, Esther was the daughter of the late Seavy Pete Johnson and the late Patsy Idella Locklear. She is also preceded in death by two brothers, Danny Johnson and Dewey Locklear Jr.; two sisters, Beverly Lowery and Judy Denton; and nephews, James Lee Hunt and Christopher Bullard Jr.

Esther is survived by her husband, Willie Poteat; sons, Douglas Groves, wife Tammy and Elisha Groves, wife Carrie; daughters, Valerie, wife of Joseph Harrington and Tiffany, wife of Gil Parker; grandchildren, David Webb, Brittany Hales, Hailey and Clint Groves; Jayce Rawhoof and Waylon Muffett; Kenneth Groves; Jade Whitehead and Heath Harrington; sisters, Janice Locklear, Lora Locklear and Penny Porter; as well as an additional abundance of nieces, nephews; and a host of wonderful friends.

Esther was a force of nature-a sassy, strong woman whose spirit could not be dimmed, even by the weight of cancer. Her strength wasn't just in her resilience but in the way she lived her life: bold, unapologetic and full of love. She fought not just for herself but for everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her journey through cancer was marked by grace and grit, facing each challenge with a fierce determination, never allowing the disease to define her. Instead, she defined her own path, showing those around her what true strength looks like. Her laughter, her sharp wit and her unwavering love were constants, even on the hardest days. In the face of adversity, she became a beacon of hope. Her story is a testament to the power of the human spirit and indomitable will to live life fully, no matter the circumstances. She taught those who loved her the true meaning of courage and the importance of embracing every moment. Mama's legacy is one of love, strength and unbreakable will. She may no longer be with us, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who were touched by her remarkable life.