Alan Wayne Presley

Alan W. Presley, a beloved father, brother, grandfather, friend, and man of deep faith, peacefully entered eternal rest at the age of 72 years. Born on July 3, 1953, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Douglas and Evelyn Presley, Alan lived a life marked by unwavering devotion—to his family, to his faith, to his work, and to the service of others.

A proud graduate of South Side High School, Class of 1971, Alan pursued academic excellence, earning his degree in Business from Indiana University in 1975. His thirst for knowledge led him to later obtain an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2003. These accomplishments laid the foundation for a remarkable and diverse career that spanned decades and industries.

Alan began his professional journey at Kmart Corporation, where his leadership and keen business acumen saw him successfully manage 13 stores during a 21-year tenure. His career continued with impactful roles at Service Merchandise and Best Buy, before taking on the role of Production Manager at Cummins Engine Company in Indianapolis. In 1998, Alan embarked on a new venture, founding Presley & Sons, Inc. with his beloved sons, Douglas and Marques. Together, they built a thriving business delivering Little Debbie Snacks to major retailers, a testament to Alan's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to the family legacy. He later contributed his talents to Resorts Condominium International and concluded his career with Citizens Energy Group.

Alan’s life was deeply rooted in his faith. He gave his life to Christ at an early age and was baptized at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne. Throughout his life, Alan remained a devoted member of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, serving faithfully at multiple congregations, including St. Mark Lutheran Church in Battle Creek, MI, Shepherd of the City in Fort Wayne, and, since 1996, Our Savior Lutheran Church in Indianapolis. His church service was extensive and heartfelt—he held numerous leadership roles, including Vice-President, Elder, Academy Treasurer, Adult Bible School Facilitator, and Stewardship Chair. He found great joy in the Black Ministry Convocation and in sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ with others.

A lifelong student of the Word, Alan participated in a Bible Study Fellowship alongside other Christian men to grow in leadership and spiritual understanding. His deep and abiding faith was the cornerstone of his life and an inspiration to all who knew him. Alan was also a proud and lifelong member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., initiated in 1972. His dedication to the fraternity was evidenced in the many leadership roles he held—President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Regional Convention Chairman, among others. He was honored as “Alpha Man of the Year” in both 1972 and 1990, reflecting his commitment to the fraternity’s values of scholarship, service, and brotherhood.

In June 2013, Alan received the gift of life through a heart transplant. Forever grateful, he honored his donor, Landis Bussell, and the Horan and Bussell families, whose generosity gave him precious additional years. In return, Alan became an impassioned advocate for organ donation, supporting the Indiana Donor Network and sharing his testimony with countless others.

Alan leaves behind a loving family who will carry forward his legacy of faith, integrity, and perseverance: his four sons, Douglas of Indianapolis, Marques (Taylor) of Hollywood, CA, Ralph (Tara) Randolph, and Daryell (Peaches) Williams; his daughter, Sheron (Walter) Vaughn of Indianapolis; brothers, Jeffrey (Tonya) of Fort Wayne, and Christopher Presley of Johnson City, TN; sisters, Karen (Arthur) Wims of Fort Wayne, Susan (John) Smith of Indianapolis, Patricia (Clarence) Smith of Toledo, OH, and Lisa (Neal) Davis of Fort Wayne. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Barry (Elaine) Moss; sisters-in-law, Dorothy King and Jeanette (Raphael) Shotwell; and cherished grandchildren, Noah, Nikolas, Nathan, Essence, Ralph, Jabril, Jamiyah, and Darryell III.

He now reunites in eternal peace with his parents, Douglas and Evelyn Presley; his beloved wife, Emily Denise Presley; brothers, Robert King and Emmett King; and parents-in-law, Emery and Delilah Moss.

Alan’s family invites those who knew and loved him to celebrate his life and legacy.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church (Indianapolis), Shepherd of the City Lutheran Church (Fort Wayne), or the Indiana Donor Network—organizations close to Alan’s heart and reflective of his enduring values.

As the Psalmist so eloquently reminds us in Psalm 30:5: “For His anger is but for a moment, and His favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.”

Alan W. Presley lived a life of purpose, grace, and love—a life that continues to bear fruit in the lives of those he touched. His memory will remain a beacon of hope and strength for generations to come.