Rev. James N. Preston

Pastor James N. Preston, born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was raised and received his formal education in Rochester, New York. Prior to making the decision to become a Funeral Director and Embalmer and graduating from Simmons College of Mortuary Science in Syracuse, New York, he attended Howard University and St. John Fisher College. Pastor Preston was actively involved in providing funeral services beginning in 1969 and later co-owned and operated Preston Funeral Home in Phoenix alongside his wife, First Lady Irene Preston. As of February 2023, Pastor Preston passed away; however, his legacy continues through Preston Funeral Home, which is proudly carried on by three generations of the Preston family—his wife, Irene ; his son, Devin Preston; and his granddaughter, Mackenzie.

Reverend Preston moved to Phoenix in 1982 and later accepted his calling to spread the gospel. On January 6, 1997, he was called to serve as pastor of Bethesda Community Baptist Church and was officially installed on March 23, 1997.

In addition to serving in pastoral ministry for more than 40 years, Pastor Preston conducted grief support groups through his bereavement ministry for over 26 years. He served on several community boards and was a strong advocate for those disenfranchised by society. In 2004, he received the NAACP Image Award for Religious and Business Leadership in the community and was the only dual award recipient within the Arizona Chapter. He also received the African American Legislator Unsung Hero’s Award and was elected National Chaplain and National President of Epsilon Nu-Delta Mortuary Fraternity, Inc.

Pastor Preston had a deep love for God’s Word and for God’s people. He faithfully proclaimed the gospel Sunday after Sunday and devoted Wednesday evenings to one of his greatest passions—teaching Bible study. He was known as an articulate and passionate preacher and teacher who gave of himself wholeheartedly whenever called upon to share the Word of God. His compassion and dedication kept him in demand as a speaker, teacher, and counselor throughout his life.

Lady Irene Preston was the love of Pastor Preston’s life and the embodiment of a true partner in every aspect of his ministry and business. He is greatly missed by all. 

First Lady Irene L. Preston was born, raised, and received her primary education in Rochester, New York. She moved to the valley in 1984, but is proud to be called a native New Yorker. She is the proud mother of one son, one daughter, four beautiful granddaughters, one grandson and one great grandson.

Lady P, as she is affectionately known, is a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer and formerly First Lady of Bethesda Community Baptist Church here in Phoenix. She currently holds three degrees: Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene; Associate of Science in Mortuary Science and Bachelor of Science in Business Management.

Lady Preston is proud to hold membership in Epsilon Nu Delta Fraternity Inc., 100 Black Women in Funeral Service, National Council of Negro Women, Professional Association of Business Women, where she received the Women of Excellence Award and the Maricopa Chapter of  Eastern Stars. She is also a strong advocate for the POMC (Parents of Murdered Children).

First Lady Irene, together with her husband, Pastor James N. Preston, own and operate their two family businesses, Preston Funeral Home and Blooms Flower and Gift Shop. Lady Irene truly enjoys co-laboring in the ministry alongside Rev. Preston for 30 years, helping wherever needed; ministering to the grieving. She also facilitates grief workshops wherever needed.

Lady P is no stranger to the demands of life. She graciously accepts the roles of ministering wife, mother, grandmother, business owner, and friend. She says  her greatest calling and joy is taking care of the man of God. This women of God who truly understands the meaning of scripture, Luke 12:48, “To whom much is given much is required.”