Larce Preston and his wife, the former Lillie Mae Hall (Aunt Mae), witnessed the birth of their son, Vernon Larnce Preston, on November 19, 1933. He was born near their home in Arkadelphia, Arkansas (Clark County), at the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains. Vernon spent his life climbing mountains to secure a better life for his family, church, community, and himself.
After graduating from Peake High school, Vernon enlisted into the U.S. Army, serving from 1953-1955. He met the love of his life, Miss Birtie Christine Beard, and they married on August 26, 1956. To this union, two children were born, Regeina Dena and Reginald Dewayne. The doting parents poured all of their material, spiritual and emotional estate into their lives and into the subsequent generations to come.
After moving to Dallas, the young couple, who had accepted Christ, joined the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Dallas’s historic Bottom district. Deacon Preston fulfilled all of the duties required of his post and loved visiting the sick and shut-in members, even on Sundays when the Cowboys were playing. He served with great pride. Vernon and Birtie both deeply invested their time, talent, and treasure in the church.
Soon after the passage of federal Civil Rights laws aimed at stopping discrimination against Blacks and women, Southwestern Bell promoted Vernon as one of its most efficient and best craft workers in the North Texas Region. Vernon Preston is possibly the first Black manager to accept the job and excelled until his retirement on December 30, 1991. He was loved and respected by the men and women who worked for him and was responsible for scores of their promotions.
Vernon was predeceased by his father, mother, and three siblings Henry “Noopy”, Ross Earl, and Bobbie.
Vernon L. Preston is survived by his beautiful wife of 65 wonderful years; his children, Regeina Hall and Reginald Preston; grandchildren, Erinn Ellis (Deon), Alison Birch (Wayne), and Regan Preston; great-grandchildren, Kennedy Tierra, Skylar Joy, and Luke Love Hall.
Additionally, he is survived by three siblings, Orene Savala and Charlie “Buddy” Preston of Dallas, and Shirley Jones of Los Angeles.
From Arkadelphia to Dallas, every mountain has been surveyed and scaled. Finally, Vernon Larnce Preston has climbed onto his seat near the foothills of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.laurellanddallas.com for the Preston family.
