Samuel Lyle Preston, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 27th, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was 83 years old.

Mr. Preston was born in Johnson City, Tennessee on September 27th, 1941 to the late Samuel and Jane Preston. He is preceded in death by his son, Samuel R. Preston.

He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Newport, Tennessee, a member of the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association, and a member and supporter of 4-H of Tennessee.

Most notably, he founded Preston Woodworking, which has flourished in the cabinetry field for the last 65 years. A master woodworker, he found solace and joy in crafting beautiful pieces that often graced the homes of family and friends. The family business has since been passed on to his son David, and now employs a third generation of Preston’s. Evidence of his craftsmanship is still visible in residences and commercial businesses throughout East Tennessee and beyond. Sam led by example and left a lasting memory with all who worked with him.

Upon retirement, Sam’s love for agriculture led to the establishment of “The Farm” in Del Rio, Tennessee where he and Sarah lived for 20 years. The Farm was Sam’s sanctuary. The lasting memories it created for the entire Preston family are what Sam was most proud of. The Farm housed his love for cattle, nourished his love for tractors, old and new, and gave space for horses, chickens and a huge garden. He raised and distributed the best home cooked hamburgers in East Tennessee. He was happiest checking the cattle with his beloved golden retrievers, Gypsy and Ginger by his side. His passion for farming led his family to follow his footsteps in a love for showing cattle, growing and canning their own vegetables, and providing for others.

Known to his family as “Papa”, Sam was a kid at heart. His garden vegetables always paired well with his “opossum stew”, a fan favorite of all the grandchildren when they would visit. He loved to make others laugh, even in his last days.

Big Sam left a legacy of hard work, talent, dedication and deep love for his family. The Preston’s will continue to honor his memory through a love for the farm, commitment to those around them and the artistry that he inspired in them. He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

Sam is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Sarah Preston and their children, John (Kathy) Preston and David (Kami) Preston; along with his grandchildren, Gracie, Rachel, Adeline, Reid, Amelia, Sarah and Samuel Garnet Preston.

A celebration of life will be held for close friends and family of Sam in late November. Please reach out to family members for more details. Donations in Sam’s honor may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Center or Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Condolences may be sent to the Preston family online at www.dillow-taylor.com

Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, Tennessee 423-753-3821