The Big Four were back together again.

The occasion, though bittersweet, was filled with memories and hugs.

One of the four “big” Weidenbach cousins, Beverly Potter, was celebrated in November by more than 55 of the island’s most influential and connected women who came to bid her a bon voyage at the Whidbey Island Country Club.

“She’s really a dynamo,” said Lurene Richards. “A legend around here.”

Potter is moving to live near family in Alabama after living on Whidbey Island all her life.

A school teacher and reading tutor for more than 20 years, the “renowned fashionista” whose family owned a clothing store on Pioneer Way for many years, a founding member of the Whidbey Island League of Women Voters and a legendary party hostess, Potter has left her mark on the island in a big way.

“She was full of magic and excitement,” said Gerry Yakovleff, who taught with Potter.

“No one would miss her parties.”

The Weidenbachs first came to the island in 1894 and had two sons and two daughters. The Big Four were the daughters of the Weidenbach siblings, a dynamic group of women who were instrumental in initiating changes in politics, education and women’s issues, according to Potter’s many friends.

Potter was joined at her celebration luncheon with the other “Big Four” cousins, Juanita Anderson, Margaret Peterson and Avis Rector.

“It hasn’t sunk in but it will,” Peterson said of Potter’s departure.

“We have the telephone, email … and we travel,” Rector added.

Lois Repoz, the emcee of the luncheon, described Potter as the ultimate civic leader and organizer, a “political junkie” and the pride of the Whidbey Island Country Club.” Repoz recalled stories of Potter dancing in Times Square on New Year’s Eve and swimming from sharks during an exotic trip abroad.

“I’d follow Bev to the ends of the earth, and I have,” Repoz said. “We all took different paths to get to your celebration of friendship. Many even cancelled bridge to be here to honor the first lady of Whidbey Island.”

While her friend’s did most of the talking, Potter expressed gratitude and amazement at the turnout for her celebration luncheon. But it was difficult to sell her beautiful scenic home south of Oak Harbor of 52 years, which held so many great Whidbey Island memories.

“It was hard to give up my home,” Potter said.

Still, Potter, well known for her adventurous spirit, is looking forward to new projects in her new locale.

“Alabama is benefitting from our lovely Beverly,” Yakovleff said. “She’s one of those women who has been so quietly supportive of her community.”

“She will be missed.”