Preston Sterling Williams

Born on June 16, 1949, in San Diego, California, Preston was the son of David Williams and Marguerite Grant. Throughout his life, he called several places home, living in California, Virginia, Colorado, and Hawaii, before making Norman, Oklahoma his final residence. Wherever life led him, he carried with him a deep sense of purpose, faith, perseverance, and an unwavering love for his family.

On March 30, 1974, Preston married the love of his life, Ruth Mary Morgan. Together they shared 52 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, faith, and devotion. Of all his accomplishments, nothing brought him greater joy than being a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He cherished every moment spent with Ruth, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were truly the center of his world.

Preston earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and dedicated much of his life to serving others. He proudly served his country for more than seven years, first in the United States Air Force and later in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Sergeant (E-5). His military service earned him numerous honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with two Service Stars, and multiple Good Conduct Medals from both the Army and the Air Force. In recognition of his sacrifices and dedication, he was also honored with an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. After discharging from the Army, Preston joined the National Guard.

His commitment to public service continued long after his military career. Preston served with the United States Border Patrol and worked as a police officer in several small Oklahoma communities. His desire to help others led him to become a preacher, Chaplain for Cleveland County, private investigator, and published author. His ministry even took him overseas, where he traveled to Russia on missionary work in partnership with the sheriff’s department. Throughout every chapter of his life, Preston sought to make a difference through service, compassion, and faith.

Outside of his many professions, Preston embraced life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing, target shooting, metal detecting, treasure hunting, and coin collecting. He enjoyed trying new foods, sipping his favorite combination of Sprite mixed with orange juice, writing, watching classic westerns, and laughing along with The Three Stooges and Laurel and Hardy. Music was always close to his heart, and he especially enjoyed listening to Pink Floyd and The Beatles.

Those who knew Preston admired his determination and resilience. He taught his family the value of perseverance through both his words and the example he lived each day. Above all else, he hoped to be remembered as a man who faithfully served his country, his community, a legacy he leaves behind with honor.

Preston was a proud member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth Mary Williams of Norman, Oklahoma; his daughter, Angela Williams of Lacey, Washington; his son, Nathaniel Williams of Roanoke, Virginia; six cherished grandchildren; seven treasured great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and many extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Marguerite, and by his brother.

Preston’s life was one of unwavering faith, courageous service, and enduring love. His strength, compassionate heart, and steadfast devotion to those he loved will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 pm on July 19, 2026, at Primrose Funeral Service, 3901 N Flood Ave., Norman, OK 73069, US.