Kay Johnson Preston

Kay Whan Johnson Preston, 61, of Shannon, Alabama, passed away on December 7, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on March 23, 1964, in Fairfield, Alabama, Kay lived a life defined by resilience, determination, and a heart that welcomed everyone she met.

Kay was kind, loving, strong, fierce, and passionate — a woman who faced every challenge head-on. Whether she was cheering on her grandchildren, standing tall in a sales competition, or bravely fighting cancer while pursuing her education, she inspired those around her with her courage and her refusal to give up.

She achieved great success throughout her career, earning top saleswoman honors with Tupperware, leading as a top salesperson at Midfield Dodge and Eastern Shore Harley-Davidson, and proudly owning and creating for Mallory’s Country Charm and Gulf Treasures. Kay and her husband, Jeff, also fulfilled a shared dream when they opened and operated Preston’s Irish Pub, where their warmth and generosity helped build a community of friends who became family. Additionally, Kay owned and operated her own hair salon — a place where she not only made others feel beautiful but shared laughter, encouragement, and friendship with everyone who sat in her chair. Kay excelled as an athlete as well, becoming a state champion archer in Alabama.

Education was one of her greatest personal victories. Even while battling cancer, Kay earned her Associate of Science degree from Jefferson State Community College and completed her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She was named to the Dean’s List for her academic excellence. Kay was also a gifted artist, expressing her creativity through many mediums and leaving behind beautiful work that reflects her spirit.

Kay is survived by her devoted husband, William “Jeff” Preston; her mother, HiWhan Kim McLean; her stepfather, Quincy McLean; and her sister, Kim Leazure. She will be forever cherished by her children: Jeffery Aaron Preston (Crystal), Cynthia Blair Hood, and Amanda Margaret Shaw (Colton). She adored her grandchildren — Mark, Colton, Brayden, Greyson, Bryce, Harper, and Ari — who brought endless joy and purpose to her days.

She was preceded in death by her beloved father, Richards Metz Johnson; her daughter, Mallori Nicole Hood; and her brother-in-law, Mark Leazure. We rejoice knowing they are together again, holding her close once more.

Kay loved big and lived boldly. She never met a stranger, finding joy in conversation and connection wherever she went. She was an amazing wife, daughter, mother, sister, and friend — the kind of person who made the world better just by being in it. Her legacy will continue through the family she adored, the friends she touched, and the many lives she brightened simply by being herself.