Obituary

William C. Preston, 84, of Charleston, West Virginia, passed peacefully on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at Hubbard Hospice House.

Born on October 4, 1940, in Memphis, Tennessee, he was the son of the late Cecil and Carmen Preston. He was preceded in death by his wife of 30 years Drema Joyce (Branscome) Preston, and his son, United States Marine Cpl Lance Preston. He is survived by his son Brett, his daughter-in-law Christi, and his grandchildren Raine, Sierra, Gabbie, Maddie, Lia and Johnny. He also leaves behind the Branscome and Fox families, who took him in as one of their own; the cast and crew of his days at Charleston High School (The Panera Breakfast Club); his lifelong best friend John; and his very special person Cathy who was always there for him.

He was a graduate of the Charleston High School Class of 1959 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture from the University of Cincinnati in 1967. He was a registered architect in several States and left behind many notable buildings and residences including Laidley Field, the South Charleston Recreation Center, the beautiful Islamic Mosque in South Charleston, the legendary Graziano’s Pizza restaurants and Number 5 Dreamview Lane, named after his beloved wife. He spent several years as a professor of architecture at West Virginia State University where he encouraged many students to excel in the art, science and history of architecture.

He was a civic leader serving in a leadership role for the West Virginia Jaycees traveling extensively as an ambassador to create positive change and promote sustainable business opportunities throughout the State. He was a positive influence in the lives of dozens of local children as a coach of several youth athletic teams in the Charleston area.

He practiced a Christian life and attended Christ Church United Methodist. He took great pride and joy in the creative design and meaningful messaging of the custom Christmas cards he shared every year. He was an avid fan of WVU football and basketball and his genuine warmth endeared him to many lifelong friends. He had a love of the music of his generation and played saxophone in many local bands in his younger years.

Expressions of sympathy may be directed to the website of Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home at www.barlowbonsall.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Kanawha Hospice Care and its amazing staff who cleared the path for a graceful and dignified departure into the adventures that lie ahead.

A small celebration of Bill’s life will be scheduled at a later date.

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.