Preston Ray Jones

Preston Ray Jones went to be with the Lord on Thursday, September 16, 2021. He was born to Mark & Anita (Jackson) Jones on December 2, 1929, in Tacoma, Washington. After graduating from Stadium High School, he joined the Navy, serving on the USS Roosevelt as a Machinist's Mate.

He met the love of his life, Shirley Sagehorn, on a blind date. They married on December 15, 1951. They had two daughters: Michelle Laurine and Lisa Marie.

Preston was a salesman extraordinaire in the wholesale glass business. He was the kind of man who never met a stranger.

Preston loved the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He shared this love with his daughters. They grew up camping and fishing. Backpacking through the Olympics was a joy that he shared not only with his daughters, but with his brothers, nieces, nephews and grandkids. He earned the moniker "Uncle Grandpa" on one of these hikes.

He and Shirley shared their faith not only through their church, but through their having a welcoming, loving home; many a time kids would come to share a problem, receive advice (never a judgement) or a listening ear.

His grandchildren believed he was the "World's Greatest Grandpa". He earned their respect and love through his wisdom, generosity and love for family. He shared his wisdom, love and Swedish pancakes with them. They loved rubbing his bald head for good luck. He and Shirley were their grandchildren's biggest fans at as many sporting events that they could attend.

One of his greatest joys was hosting Thanksgiving. He and Shirley would have as many as 30 family and friends (honorary family) in their home, making all feel welcome.

Preston and Shirley joined the Holiday Rambler club after retirement, traveling from Mexico to Alaska to New England in the fall. On one of their caravans, the members would try to find the most difficult spot for Pres to back his trailer into. Without fail, he would get the job done and help others back their trailers as well. Yet, their favorite place to be was on the Oregon Coast.

His legacy will live on through all he knew, loved, and touched.

He was preceded in death by his mother Anita, step-mother Clare, father Mark, daughter Michelle and his wife of 66 years, Shirley.

He leaves behind his brother Brian, and brother Mark and wife Laurie, and numerous nieces and nephews. He also leaves his daughter Lisa and husband, Den. His grandchildren Kathy & Joey Delvo, Karmen & Wade Taylor, Kim & Richard Stanford and Kurt & Beth Wiese, plus 9 great-grandchildren; Kyler Delvo, Kaden & Dakota Cecil, Harley & Hudson Stanford, Kamryn, Samuel, Stella & Margot Wiese.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, October 2, 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the home of Den and Lisa Wiese, 227 D Street, Grand Coulee.