Jack Preiss

Rest in Peace Jack Preiss.. Thanks for your love of the city and helping to make Durham what it is today.

May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of deep sorrow. Those who pass on, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. My sincerest condolences. (Psalms 116:15)

Jack's social and political work was well known and profoundly important to Durham, as was his work at Duke. His vitality is also legend, but I had no idea about his love for aviation and sailing! What a most remarkable man. His life rings with love and joy.

Didn't know Mr. Preiss personally, but followed his city council career and appreciate what he and other progressive members did to bring Durham back to what it is today. Rest in peace Mr. Preiss and condolences to your family and friends. Bill Newton

What a great legacy to leave. He touched so many lives in such positive ways. Thankful to have known him. And I love the shout out to Pop.

Jack had a long life, and an almost longer memory. Jack and Joan's house was where many meaningful projects took shape, and the two of them were central to so much good that happened in Durham. Lots of great, often ironic, humor. Jack was culturally Jewish, and I will miss the sense of 'family' I had with him. Durham has lost one of the greats.

The National Farm Worker Ministry appreciated the support of Jack and, especially his wife, Joan, for farm workers.

Jack Preiss was my Sociology major professor at Duke 50 years ago. A mentor then, he later continued to enrich and influence my life through thoughtful correspondence for many many years. I am forever grateful for this man. His was surely a life fully lived.

Jack was one of the best professors I had at Duke. His teaching to question assumptions and view society through a sociological lens were lifelong gifts. He was also a key early leader and advocate for affordable housing in Durham long before others realized how important safe, decent housing is for our community's residents. We will miss his a lot, but I hope his inspiration and example will abide with us going forward.