Robert Preston Wailes, Jr.

Robert Preston Wailes, Jr. passed away at the age of 88 on June 6, 2024 in New Orleans. He was born on July 19, 1935 in Vicksburg, Mississippi to Marie Colhoun Wailes and Robert Preston Wailes. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Martha Porter Wailes, his son Robert Preston Wailes III (Jolie) and his daughter Ann Wailes Sinnott (John). “Papa” was the adored grandfather of five: William, Porter, Janie, Preston and Jack. He is also survived by one sibling, Francis Marion Lassiter. He is predeceased by his parents, as well as five sisters and one brother; Marie Wailes Smith, Ann Wailes Buchanan, Jane Wailes Derivaux, Sally Lane Wailes, Judy Lassiter Kincannon, William Warren Lassiter. Preston was a graduate of the University of Mississippi, The Interagency Bank Examiners School in Washington, D.C. and The School of Banking of the South at LSU in Baton Rouge. He began his banking career as a National Bank Examiner with the U.S. Treasury Department before joining the private sector, providing management services to a number of Southeast Louisiana banks in Orleans, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. Tammany, Terrebonne and other parishes. Civically active throughout his life, Mr. Wailes served on the board of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO), WYES-Public Television, The Metropolitan Crime Commission, Louise S. McGehee School, St. George’s Episcopal School and Lambeth House. He was also a member of Trinity Episcopal Church, the Church of Good Shepherd in Cashiers, NC as well as the Whiteside Cove Summer Chapel. The very definition of a family man, he was an exceptional father, a devoted husband and a loyal friend who touched many with his lively spirit, congeniality and kind soul. A host like none other, he had a knack for making people feel welcomed and special. He loved to dance the Jitterbug with his beloved bride and was always up for shenanigans with his grandchildren, of whom he was immensely proud. Papa was not afraid to sing out loud and proud, and did so right up until the day that he passed. His favorite place was his command center/back porch in North Carolina, entertaining family and friends, chatting on the phone, reading the newspaper and soaking up the sights and sounds of nature. Preston’s legacy of warmth, generosity and love will be remembered by all who knew him. He leaves behind a community of family and friends that will miss him dearly. A funeral service will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church on June 26 at 11:00 am. A visitation will begin at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, 1329 Jackson Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70130, or a charity of your choice.