Ronald Allyn Preston

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Margaret Manning Preston, his children, Christopher Allyn Preston (Nancy) and Brian Charles Preston (Jennifer), both of Wilmington NC, and Andrew Conerly Preston of New Bern, his sister Barbra Fischer of Houston, and his grandchildren Conerly Allyn Preston and Luke Joseph Preston both of Wilmington NC. He is predeceased by his grandson Owen Vaughan Preston.

Ronald was a graduate of the University of Maryland and the MCV School of Medicine in 1970. In 1971, he enlisted in the Navy where he was stationed at the Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. After his service in the Navy, he completed his residency at the Medical College of South Carolina in Charleston SC. He then went on to practice medicine in New Bern NC for over 40 years and was one of the founding members of Coastal Carolina Health Care.

Ron was very involved in his community. He was very active in the Medical Society, serving as Secretary, Treasurer and President. He then served on the Board of Trustees of Craven Regional Medical Center for two years. Hospice was dear to his heart, leading the organization for nine years. Later in his career he served on the Board of Directors of the Craven County Health Department and spent many hours volunteering at the Merci Clinic.

He will be remembered as an avid net fisherman, with a great love of the Neuse River. He traveled often with his wife and friends and always enjoyed experiencing different cultures. Family gatherings and vacations were important to him, especially family poker night. In addition, Ron had a love of books and continuing education in many disciplines. Above all he was a kind and empathetic man who enjoyed helping others and serving his community.

The family will receive friends for a visitation on Friday, July 26, 2024 from 6pm-8pm at Cotten Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to in Ron’s honor to the Ronald McDonald House online at https://rmhctriangle.org/donate/

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the Preston family.