Preston Olive Jones, Jr., known affectionately to friends and family as “P.O.,” passed away on March 21, 2026, in Ruston, Louisiana. Born on May 29, 1961, in Greenville, Mississippi, Preston lived a life defined by quiet strength, a Jack-of-All-Trades ingenuity, and an unwavering devotion to his family and friends.
Preston dedicated his entire professional career to becoming a skilled telecommunications technician at Texas Gas. Beyond his technical expertise, he was respected by his colleagues, many of whom became lifelong friends over the decades.
A man who was truly happy when he was helping, Preston was often the first to arrive after a storm to clear fallen trees or to lend his skills to a friend’s or family’s project. He was a long-time member of Grace Methodist, where he spent years mentoring youth and traveling across states to provide disaster relief. He was exceptionally generous with his talents and his time. When not focusing on a project, he could be found enjoying music, puzzles, games, bird-watching and spending time with the family he loved so dearly.
Preston’s greatest priority was always his family. He was a grounding source of strength, always reminding those he loved: “It’s all going to work out; everything is gonna be okay.”
The family will forever remember him in his two favorite spots: watching a sunset while sitting on the porch swing of the family Tennessee Farmhouse, and soaking up the sun, salt, and sand on the beach.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy Inman Jones; his mother, Betty Jones; his children, Brittany Lane and her husband Trey, Alex Jones, and Sara Jones; and his sister, Betsy Nichols and her husband Steve. He was the proud grandfather of Eloise, Mars, and Rolfe Lane, who brought him so much joy. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Preston Jones, Sr.
A celebration of life service will be held at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, March 24th, at Grace Methodist Church in Ruston, LA at 3401 N Trenton St., Ruston, LA. A visitation will be held prior to the service at 2:00 PM.
Burial and graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, March 26th, at Cane Creek Primitive Baptist Church at 1019 Cane Creek Church Rd, Rives, TN, with a visitation prior to the service at 10:00 AM.
