A Middle Tennessee community is mourning the loss of Norman Bentlee Potts, a 17-year-old from Williamsport, Tennessee, who died on June 20 in a crash at Duck River Raceway Park in Bedford County. According to his obituary, Bentlee passed away unexpectedly while doing what he loved most.
Bentlee was set to begin his senior year at Santa Fe High School this fall. He had run cross country for the school for several years and had a strong interest in sports, especially football, along with a range of other athletic activities. But it was racing that truly defined him.
Friends and family describe a teenager who lived with energy and a constant pull toward anything with an engine. He spent his free time riding mini bikes, working on motors, and racing at Duck River Raceway, the same track where his life would later be cut short.
He was a devoted NASCAR fan, and his favorite driver was Kyle Bronson, who competes in Dirt Late Models under car number 40. When he wasn’t focused on racing, Bentlee enjoyed spending time outdoors and listening to country music, with Hank Williams Jr. topping his list of favorite artists.
According to earlier reporting from WSMV4, Bentlee’s car flipped during a race on Saturday night. His cousin and best friend, Austin Potts, was riding in the car with him at the time and survived the crash.
Family members said Austin is recovering at home, though the experience has left him shaken as he processes the sudden loss of someone so close to him.
Family and Community Reflect on a Life Full of Joy
Bentlee was the son of Ashlee Howell and Norman Anthony “Bubba” Potts, and the stepson of Noah Howell. He is survived by his younger sister, Mayce Potts, his maternal grandmother, Rhonda Dale, and his paternal grandfather, Charles Anthony “Tony” Potts.
He also leaves behind close cousins and lifelong friends Austin Potts and Kodie Jentink, along with many aunts, uncles, and extended family who knew and loved him.
His obituary notes that he was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Michael “PawPaw” Dale, whom he called his hero, and his paternal grandmother, Linda Potts.
Racing had long connected Bentlee to his grandfather’s memory, a bond that shaped much of his love for the sport.
Those who knew Bentlee describe him as someone who brought joy wherever he went. His obituary states that although his time on earth was far too brief, his spirit, laughter, and love for life will remain with everyone who knew him.
Duck River Raceway Park also shared its own tribute following the crash, calling Bentlee more than just another racer and describing him as part of the track’s extended family.
Santa Fe School echoed similar sentiments, remembering him as a cherished member of the school community whose personality and enthusiasm left a lasting impression on classmates and staff.
A visitation for Bentlee will be held on Thursday, June 25, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Oakes and Nichols Funeral Home in Columbia, Tennessee. Online condolences can be shared through the funeral home’s website.
As the community gathers to honor his memory, many are echoing the message his family shared in the days after his death, encouraging others to hold their loved ones a little closer, since life can change in an instant.
