Warren Ray Preston

Born April 6, 1955 in Detroit Michigan to the late George Preston and Mary Alice Barrett Preston Busby, Ray was one of four children and their only son.

A product of Michigan public schools, he attended MoKersky Elementary School, Roosevelt Junior High School and Robichaud High School in Dearborn Heights Michigan. He also attended National University.

In 1978, Ray joined the US Navy and served for 20 years before retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Commander in August 1998. During his time in the Navy, Ray traveled the world. He was stationed in Japan, South Carolina, the Philippines and Guam.

While in the Navy, Ray met and married Dolores, his beloved wife of 38 years.

After retiring, he and his family settled in Jacksonville, Florida. Once in Jacksonville, he and his wife founded a construction company and built homes in the Jacksonville area. Later he would teach school in the Jacksonville area.

With an irrepressible zeal for life, Ray brought light and joy everywhere he went. He loved to entertain family and friends. He served as president of his homeowners association and was always ready to discuss current events.

He was a member of a motorcycle club, and could often be seen riding his Harley motorcycle. An avid dog lover, he owned several dogs that were near and dear to him.

A member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Jacksonville, faith was a integral part of Ray’s life sustaining him through the ups and downs.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife Dolores; four children Shikenna Wilkins of Michigan; Mariko Preston (Casey) of California; Adriana Preston and Nikkito Preston both of Florida; two sisters Tish Preston-Stubbs (James) of Missouri; Vicki Preston of North Carolina; seven grandchildren Cedric Staples, Sierra Underwood, Shawna Underwood, Kobe Kirkpatrick, Micheal Edelen, Samuel Edelen and Miriam Edelen. He also leaves three great grandchildren along with a beloved aunt and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his sister, Helen Preston.

A visitation for Warren will be held Thursday, April 20, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 11801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223. A funeral service will occur Thursday, April 20, 2023 at 6:00 PM, 11801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223. A committal service will occur Friday, April 21, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hgmandarin.com for the Preston family.