John 14:2–6 (KJV)

“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”

William “Brownie” Preslor June 12, 1951 –July 22, 2026

William “Brownie” Preslor, born on June 12, 1951, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Known to everyone as “Brownie,” he was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, faithful friend, and a man whose kindness touched many lives.

Brownie was a man of deep faith who knew his Lord and Savior and was of the Free Will Baptist faith. His faith was reflected in the love, compassion, and care he showed to others throughout his life.

He worked as a private investigator and was also the proud owner of his own pawn shop for many years. Through his work and everyday interactions, Brownie formed many lasting friendships and became a respected member of his community.

Above all, Brownie cherished his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 31 years, Dianna Kaye Preslor (Matheson), whose love and devotion were a treasured part of his life.

He is survived by his children: Barbara Akers and husband Danny; Lisa Mains and husband Mike; Debbie Garland and husband Tim; Sharon Smith and husband Gary; Christina Gill and husband Ron; Regina Wyke; Jeff Baker and wife Teresa; Sabrina Barnett and husband Jeff.

He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Harrison; his sisters-in-law, Karen Williams and husband Randy, and Karla Smith and husband Darrin; his goddaughters, Malena and Tamissa Pierce, and his very special family members and friends, Mary Ann Smith, Jack Presnell,Jr. and many special family members and friends.

Brownie’s legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Thomas Guess, Jessica Guess, Landon Honeycutt, Nick Honeycutt, Lydia Honeycutt, Benjamin Andrews, Jacob Andrews, Joshua Garland, Dustin Gill, Abagail Baker, Allison Baker, and JR Baker.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Maude Brumitt; his brothers Joe, Bill, Earl, Lawrence, Jack, and Frank; his sisters Vivian and Anna Ruth; and his beloved grandchildren Makayla Garland and McKinley Garland.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort knowing Brownie has been welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior. His love and legacy will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know him.

A Service to Celebrate the life of Brownie will be conducted at 12 Noon Tuesday, July 28, 2026 in Memorial Funeral Chapel with Pastor Justin Deaton officiating. A Prayer will be by Darrin Smith and the Eulogy will be given by Gary Smith. Interment will follow in the Whaleytown Cemetery, Butler. Pallbearers: Joshua Garland, Tim Garland, Gary Smith, Ron Gill, Dustin Gill, Jack. Presnell,Jr. Honorary Pallbearers: Danny Akers, Oscar Osborne. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until 12 noon Tuesday prior to the service. Special thank you to Greg Matney and to the amazing n urses at Ballad Health Hospice House of Bristol. Condolences may be sent to the family at our web-site www.memorialfcelizabethton.com.

Memorial Funeral Chapel is serving the Preslor family