Preston was born Sept. 1, 1940, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, to his parents Nimrod and Francis Preston.

On March 1, 1980, he married Janet Wright in a private ceremony in Las Vegas. They found their greatest commonalities in their shared love of traveling, good scotch, and crazy adventures.

Preston and Janet made their home in Bastrop for many years before moving to Granger to be closer to family and friends.

After nearly 30 years, Preston retired from his position as a valued and devoted employee of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Research Center, formerly located in Smithville.

Preston loved the outdoors, boating, fly fishing and hunting with his son-in-law whom he nicknamed “Smoke.” In his younger years, he was an avid golfer and could often be found out on the golf course.

His captivating personality made him a natural storyteller, who could keep you engaged and entertained for hours, especially with tales of his escapades on “9th and Cherry.”

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Janet.

Preston is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Nikki and Joe Barcuch; and his beloved grandsons, Cameron Barcuch and Conner Barcuch.

The family would like to extend an expression of gratitude and thanks to Altus Hospice, his nurse, Brooke, Chaplin Jonathan and Katia Lewis, for their kind and compassionate care and time with Preston and to friends and family for their loving and constant support.

In keeping with Preston’s wishes, family and friends are invited to a celebration of his life May 5, at 1 p.m., at the Circleville Store.