Eric Shawn Potier, age 53, passed away on Friday May 26, 2023, at Memorial Hermann Hospital in The Texas Medical Center. He was born August 28, 1969, in Houston, Texas to James and Josephine Potier. Eric received his education from Lamar Senior High School, graduating in 1987. He served his country as a Combat Engineer in the U.S Army National Guard from 1990-1994. After his military service, Eric worked as an Assistant Roadmaster with the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad from 1996-2001. He then changed career paths working with the Harris County Juvenile Probation Department from 2002-2004.

Eric had a passion for working with people to improve their circumstances and better themselves; this passion led him to obtain a certificate of Chemical Dependency Counseling from Houston Community College in 2004. Eric founded his own non-profit organization - People Changing, Inc. in 2001 to provide counseling to men, women, and families in need. He worked closely with Harris County Corrections and Supervisions Department, while partnering with a variety of non-profit organizations throughout the City of Houston. While serving his community, Eric received numerous awards, accolades, and accommodations in recognition of his contributions.

When the pandemic hit, Eric felt the need to slow down to enjoy life, he made the decision to do a soft retirement. He continued to work with the court at a decreased capacity and increased his volunteer time. He volunteered at Good Hope Church helping with the food pantry multiple days a week and also worked with The Texas Parks and Wildlife preservation. He served on countless boards providing guidance to various organizations.

Eric lived life to the fullest, he had a generous spirit and loved spending time with his family and children. He enjoyed fishing, traveling, and curating collectibles.

He is preceded in death by his parents James and Josephine Potier, his brother Alton Potier, and his nephew JaVoris Potier. He leaves to cherish his memory, his significant other Brandee Davis (Kalah, Kole), son Devonte Potier (Kirsten Freeman), daughter Kayla Potier. His brothers Gregory, Aaron, Byron, and Christopher Potier. His nieces Joycelyn Stewart, Skylar Potier, Carson Potier, and Harper Potier. His nephews Damian Potier, Brandon Freeman, Brandon Jackson and a host of other relatives and friends.

Family, friends, and others whose lives Eric touched are invited to pay their last respects at Pleasant Hill

Baptist Church, 1510 Pannell St, Houston, Texas 77020. The memorial service will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 10, 2023.  Repass information to be shared at a later time.