Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Toki Poteat, 88, of Clinton, Maryland went into the arms of Jesus on December 25, 2025.  By her side were her devoted son James Poteat, loving daughter Sandra Kirby, and son in law Patrick Kirby. 

Toki was born in Misawa, Japan on March 21, 1937 to Kuni Jiro and Kisako Toriabe.  She learned to speak enough English to work in the mess hall on the military base close to her home where she met and later married her husband of 62 years, Paul Poteat.  After moving to the United States, Toki dedicated her time to become an American Citizen, of which she was very proud.  Toki also made the decision to follow in believer's baptism as a Christian after many years practicing Buddhism.  

Toki loved to cook for her family and others, crocheted and knitted many gifts for people, and spend many hours gardening and fishing.  She was an avid bingo player and enjoyed her all night poker games with her friends.  She was adventurous and outgoing and always had a smile for everyone. 

Toki is survived by her daughter Sandra (Patrick), grandchildren Daniel, Kisa, and Adam, and greatgrandchildren Emma and Ezra, son James and grandson Nathanael.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Paul Poteat, who passed on February 16, 2023. 

Cremation has taken place, and the family will remember Toki privately. 


Paul R Poteat, 84, of Clinton, Maryland passed away peacefully on February 16, 2023.  Paul was born on June 4, 1938 to Elsie Quick Hart and James R. Poteat. 

At 17, Paul enlisted in the Air Force and began his military career that included law enforcement, communications, electronics and intelligence.  He loved to travel and was rarely in one place long.  He met his wife Toki Poteat while stationed at Misawa AB, Japan and they had 62 wonderful years together.  Paul never stopped learning new things, once he mastered a skill he went on to the next hobby or challenge.  He was an avid reader and could converse expertly on many topics once you got him talking, though most times he seemed quiet.  He had a great sense of humor and even worked as a bartender occasionally at the American Legion where he liked to socialize. 

At the time of his passing, Paul was survived by his wife Toki and son James of the home, grandson Nathanael, daughter Sandra (Patrick) of Clovis, NM, grandchildren, Daniel, Kisa and Adam, and greatgrandchild Emma. 

Paul was preceded in death by his mother Elsie Hart.  

Toki & Paul Poteat

Toki & Paul Poteat

Toki & Paul Poteat Services

No public services planned at this time