John Gillam Preslar Sr.

John Gillam Preslar, Sr. John Gilliam Preslar, Sr., 73, of Etoile, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Friday, January 23, 2009. John was born October 22,1935 to John Marshall and Lola Mae Rankin Preslar in Travis County, Texas. He attended the public schools of Travis County, was a graduate of Austin High School in 1953, and continued his education at the University of Texas, where he studied architecture and was a member of the swim team. John learned and quickly mastered the plastering trade,working for Ray Bolieu and later Odie Howery with whom he subsequently became partners. He counted both men among his many good friends. In 1979 with some persuasion and endless encouragement from his best friend (wife) Hughleen, he founded Preslar Lath and Plaster. He was regarded highly among contractors, clients, and peers for his superior workmanship and integrity in business and personal relationships alike. He was kind and generous toward employees giving them respect approval and reward for their diligent service. He passed the business to his two eldest sons about 2003 but continued to enjoy working alongside of and offering advice to the "boys" throughout his retirement . John loved his family and took tremendous joy in listening to them singing and playing various instruments, getting together for food and fun. Did we mention how much he delighted in desserts of every type, expressing a fondness for anything that could be heaped with ice cream. He relished spending time with the grandchildren and along with "Grandma" they often took them in groups on overnight trips. He enjoyed sharing his passion for the outdoors, especially fishing, with everyone, particularly children. It often seemed his own line rarely "got wet" when on the water with young ones but it was ultimately important that they went home with a catch. John is survived by his wife,Winona Hughleen Glass Preslar and a "quiver full" of children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, including four sons: John Gilliam Jr. and wife Sandy, Roy Alan and wife Lorinda, Gary Marcel and wife Carol, and Kelly Jene. Two daughters: Brenda Lynn Mayes and husband Randy, and Lora Kay Catterson and husband Lorace (Ed). 22 Grandchildren: John Gillam III (Trey) Preslar; Jennifer and husband Paul Babb; Christopher Davis and wife, Danielle; Matthew Preslar and wife, Nicole; Rushing Mayes and wife, Ashley; Jessica and husband, Scott Love; Carissa and husband, Robert Smith; Christin and husband, Danny True; Caleb Mayes and wife, Morgan; Melody Davis and fiancé, Ahron Zisman; Danny Preslar; Jeremy Preslar; Allison Preslar; Bobbie and husband, Jake Escobar; Gary Preslar; Samuel Jones; Trevor Jones; Megan Preslar; Jada Jones; Grace Jones; Katie Mayes; Desi Mayes. 9 Great Grandchildren, Savannah, Ellie, Kyle, James, Zachary, Archer, Aiden, Kaden, and Kira. Three more great grandchildren are expected this year. In addition, two beloved brothers: Everett and wife, Carolyn Preslar, and Royce and wife, Joyce Preslar. Special affection for certain others whose lives he touched: Bonnie Alcorn, Becky Preslar, Larry Davis, Vincent Jones, Evandro, Ana Paula and Ricardo Casas. Numerous nieces and nephews, brothers-in-law and sisters-in law.He was preceeded in death by his parents as well as his eldest brother, Cloffus Eugene. Above all John's accomplishments, accreditations, and achievements he will be remembered most for his love of God whose governing of every aspect of his life Having been best represented by his unconditional love and service toward all people. He was active within the Baptist Church, primarily Fitzhugh Baptist, but his Christianity crossed any religious boundary as Christ dictated. In lieu of flowers, we respectfully request you honor John by making contributions to Fitzhugh Baptist Cemetery association or Hospice of Deep East Texas, 907 North Mound St., Nacogdoches, Texas 75961 The family will receive friends at Harrell Funeral Home, Monday, from 6:00 til 8:00 p.m. Memorial services will be held at Fitzhugh Baptist Church on Tuesday at 2:00 p.m.