PHILLIP PRESTON

PRESTON,
PHILLIP RALPH, 63
Anthony - Cowboy Phillip Ralph Preston passed away after a lengthy illness on August 8, 2012.
Born in Shreveport, LA on October 10, 1948 to Phillip Mart Preston and Lyda Mae Studdard Preston. He moved to Anthony from Williston ten years ago.
He was a Combat Medic during the Vietnam War. In the 1980's and 1990's he was terminal manager at Yellow Freight in Dallas, TX.
Also during these years he touched many, many boys' lives when he was the Director of Ranch Operations for Rhodeheaver Boys Ranch in Palatka, Florida where he was know as "Papa Phil".
When he was able, he enjoyed fishing, traveling to the mountains, riding his horses, listening to old records, loving his dogs and most all he loved spending time with his grandchildren. He enjoyed interacting with friends at the Ocala Livestock Market for the past several years.
He is survived by his wife, Deborah Roberts Preston; children, Jonathan E Preston (Susan), Jonathan W Preston; Mark Chesser (Joann), Adam Chesser (Katie), Jamie Chesser-Corley (Ted); ten grandchildren; two great-grand children; several cousins; his beloved dogs, Foxy and Bailey and scores of dear friends and extended family.
The family would like to thank all the nurses at Davita Home Dialysis Center, MRMC and most especially, Dr. Melvin Seek for his tireless devotion, care and friendship.
The family will gather to receive friends and honor his life on Friday, August 10, 2012 from 1 until 3 p.m. at Countryside Funeral Home, 9185 NE Jacksonville Rd, Anthony to gather for fellowship and share memories of Phillip.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Marion County Therapeutic Riding Association (MTRA); 6850 SE 41st Ct., Ocala, FL. 34480/ 352-732-7300;
www.mtraocala.org