Preston Smith Jr.
December 22, 1928 - February 11, 2025

Preston Smith Jr., a devoted husband, father, and community servant, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2025, in Clermont, Florida. Throughout his 96 years, he touched countless lives through his dedication to service, unwavering integrity, and compassionate heart.

Preston's journey began in Marshall, Texas, where he was born to Preston Smith Sr. and Arissa Singleton. His commitment to education and service led him to graduate from Morehouse College, followed by honorable service in the United States Air Force. His professional life was marked by 34 years of distinguished service at the United States Department of Commerce, after which he continued to help others as a certified financial planner.

For 65 years, Preston shared his life with his beloved wife, Ada Belle Smith, who preceded him in death in August 2018. Together, they built a life filled with precious memories through their shared loves of travel and hosting gatherings for friends and family. Preston and Ada were blessed with an extraordinary extended family of friends and relatives who became an integral part of their lives. Their home was a warm haven where bonds of friendship deepened into family ties, creating a tapestry of relationships that brought meaning to their journey. These cherished connections provided unwavering support, shared countless celebrations, and stood beside them through life's challenges.

Preston's dedication to community service shone brightest in his lifelong commitment to Habitat for Humanity, where he served as a board member for the Lake Sumter FL chapter. His work helped countless families achieve the dream of homeownership, leaving a lasting legacy of hope and stability in his community.

He is survived by his daughter Debra, granddaughter Tamara, and five great-grandsons.

Services
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:30 AM on February 27th at:
The Becker Funeral Home
806 W. Minneola Ave
Clermont, Florida

A Committal Service will follow at The Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida.

Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to your local Habitat for Humanity chapter in Preston's name, continuing his legacy of building hope in communities.

A Life Well Lived
Preston was known as a kind and private person who lived his life as a faithful servant with integrity, commitment, and love. His character embodied the values celebrated in Edgar Albert Guest's poem "My Creed" - a piece that resonated deeply with his approach to life and service to others.

May his memory be a blessing and an inspiration to all who knew him.