Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Preston Lewis Obituary
Born and raised in Harlan, KY, Preston was known for his kind and compassionate nature as a son, brother, husband, father, and educator. He met his soulmate, Lane Lewis, while they were both teaching in Florida. Their shared passions for nature and educating children, especially those in need, led them to Pine Mountain Settlement School, where their bond deepened. One of the many qualities Lane cherished in Preston was his persistent dedication to ensuring all students, particularly those with special needs, were provided a supportive and inclusive educational environment.
Preston dedicated over 30 years to advocating for students with special needs through his work with the Kentucky State Department of Special Education. Even after his formal career ended, his commitment to helping students continued in the collegiate space.
An environmentalist at heart, Preston thrived on his farm, where he took great pride in providing for his family from the garden he and Lane lovingly tended for many years. He was a woodsman at heart, an avid golfer and a passionate supporter of UK sports.
Preston is lovingly remembered by his three daughters, Rebekah Mutchler, Alisha DeMoss (Andrew DeMoss), and Kelsey Lewis (Shane Pope), and by his cherished grandchildren, Maddilynn Mutchler, Preston DeMoss, and Eliza Jane DeMoss. He was not only a devoted father but also a strong and supportive father figure to many other young people whose lives he touched. Preston is survived by his loving siblings; Sharon Lewis, Robyn Bingham and Mike Lewis. Preston also leaves behind his beloved wife of 50 years, Lane Lewis, whose partnership brought him immense joy and fulfillment.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Preston's honor to The Michael J. Fox Foundation or
The Pine Mountain Settlement School.
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, October 26, from 1-3 p.m. at Thornhill Education Center in Frankfort, KY.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sandy and Susan
October 24, 2024
We met in the late 70´s working together with children and families with educational and or mental health needs. We quickly became friends and began sharing time with Preston and his family. My favorite memories are of weekend volleyball games with the most wonderful group of friends in Irvine, Kentucky and of Christmases spent together! He was a wonderful man who was compassionate, loving, nonjudgmental, and caring. Preston was witty, had a wonderful sense of humor, and a smile that crinkled his eyes. Of all his accomplishments, he was most proud of his wife and daughters. We loved Preston.
Gary Larson
October 23, 2024
I met Preston in 1977 when I moved from New Jersey to Kentucky fresh out of college . As a Yankee, I was a bit of a fish out of water. He and Lane quickly became my friends and helped me acclimate to Harlen County and the Pine Mountain Community. Preston´s friendship and mentorship meant the world to me and I am not sure I would have made it through that year without the two of them. His dedication to the students was a lesson that came at just the right time, as I began my teaching career. That is one thing about Preston, he was steadfast in his convictions. He embodied honesty, integrity and patience. I learned so much in that first year that it helped me for the rest of my career. Although I thanked him many times, I think it´s worth noting that his love and influence reached not only to the people he helped, but through other educators as well. For that I am truly grateful. Teachers often don´t get to see the influence they have on others. Preston´s impact reached farther than he realized. And I´m happy to say that I carried some of that influence with me.
Preston had an unwavering love for his family. He adored Lane, his partner through thick and thin, his girls Becca, Alicia and Kelsey and his grandchildren. He beamed when he spoke about them. Along with his family, he had a deep passion for the hills of Kentucky where he roamed in a green Datsun chopping wood, cared for his farm and was happy to be outside. He was a mountain man in every sense. One look at him in his work clothes on his farm told you a lot about his character. And one smile could light up the entire room. Lucky you were to be in his company.
Time went by. Families grew. Days were crazy. But every time I spoke with Preston it was as if we had just talked to each other last week. I was always happy to hear the sound of his voice on the other end of the phone and have been forever fond of their nickname for me, Kid. My last visit to the farm left me saddened to see how Parkinson´s had affected Preston. I am relieved that his suffering has ended.
Please join me in carrying forward the kindness and laughter that Preston gave to each of us. It is the only way I know how to honor his life and legacy. Rest in peace my friend.
How you can show support
tad and debbie hommel
October 23, 2024
Can't say i have any first hand knowledge of the Lewis clan, except to have gotten to know Kelsey over the years by way of my daughter, kendl, who was kelsey's roommate in college. Kelsey is such and exceptional and loving young lady which i have witnessed over the years. Much of that can be attributed to her mom, Lane and dad, Preston. My condolences to you all for your loss. Rest in peace Preston..
Gary Larson
October 23, 2024
I met Preston in 1977 when I moved from New Jersey to Kentucky fresh out of college . As a Yankee, I was a bit of a fish out of water. He and Lane quickly became my friends and helped me acclimate to Harlen County and the Pine Mountain Community. Preston´s friendship and mentorship meant the world to me and I am not sure I would have made it through that year without the two of them. His dedication to the students was a lesson that came at just the right time, as I began my teaching career. That is one thing about Preston, he was steadfast in his convictions. He embodied honesty, integrity and patience. I learned so much in that first year that it helped me for the rest of my career. Although I thanked him many times, I think it´s worth noting that his love and influence reached not only to the people he helped, but through other educators as well. For that I am truly grateful. Teachers often don´t get to see the influence they have on others. Preston´s impact reached farther than he realized. And I´m happy to say that I carried some of that influence with me.
Preston had an unwavering love for his family. He adored Lane, his partner through thick and thin, his girls Becca, Alicia and Kelsey and his grandchildren. He beamed when he spoke about them. Along with his family, he had a deep passion for the hills of Kentucky where he roamed in a green Datsun chopping wood, cared for his farm and was happy to be outside. He was a mountain man in every sense. One look at him in his work clothes on his farm told you a lot about his character. And one smile could light up the entire room. Lucky you were to be in his company.
Time went by. Families grew. Days were crazy. But every time I spoke with Preston it was as if we had just talked to each other last week. I was always happy to hear the sound of his voice on the other end of the phone and have been forever fond of their nickname for me, Kid. My last visit to the farm left me saddened to see how Parkinson´s had affected Preston. I am relieved that his suffering has ended.
Please join me in carrying forward the kindness and laughter that Preston gave to each of us. It is the only way I know how to honor his life and legacy. Rest in peace my friend.
Gary Larson "Kid"
Carla Cook
October 21, 2024
Rock steady boxing classes in Lexington are among favorite memories of time with Preston. Preston and Larry poured great effort into those twice weekly classes. So did I after being encouraged to participate as well. Many meaningful moments.
Carla Cook
Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results
1014 Eastland Drive, Lexington, KY 40505
How to support Preston's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Preston Lewis's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
