Preston Ison of Greenwood, Arkansas, formerly of Waldron, went to be with his Lord and Savior Sunday, November 17, 2024, at his home in Greenwood. Preston was born on October 30,1943 to Claud “Sonny” Ison and Violet Ison of Waldron, Arkansas.
As a young man, Preston proudly served in the United States Army and was honorably discharged in March 1971. Preston was a carpenter for most of his life and took great pride in the number of homes that he had a hand in building. Preston also worked many years at Fort Chaffee until his eventual retirement. He married his sweetheart, Carrol (Horn) and they spent over 48 years together, until her passing in 2020. Together, they enjoyed camping and attending Turkey Track bluegrass festivals. They both loved animals, and although he credited Carrol with feeding the wildlife and strays near their home, he quietly enjoyed watching their four-legged friends.
Since Carrol’s passing, Preston’s constant companion was their inside cat, “Peanut”. Preston also fed and cared for any other animals that meandered through his yard. Although it was a long drive, Preston attended the Boles Freewill Baptist Church almost every Sunday, where he would sit beside his childhood friend, Sue. After church, he would drive to Needmore for a cup of coffee and a “serious” game of dominoes with his nephew Rick Davis and Rick’s family, Linda, Ryan and Erica, who affectionately called him “Uncle Onery”.
Preston leaves behind to cherish his memory, his sister Brenda Chapman of Fort Smith, AR, and several nieces and nephews, as well as multiple great-nieces and great-nephews. Preston will be missed by all that knew him and the many whose lives were impacted by him.
Preston was preceded in death by his loving wife Carrol, his parents Claud and Violet and by his sister, Addie “Roberta” Davis.
Preston’s visitation will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024, from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Waldron. A brief ceremony will follow at approximately 11:30 a.m. at the Duncan Cemetery Pavilion, with Rev. Pat Ray Biggs officiating. Arrangements and cremation are being entrusted to the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.