Preston Robert Williams

Preston Robert Williams, of Topeka, Kansas, beloved husband, dad, and papa, passed away on Sunday, August 4, 2024, surrounded by loved ones, at the age of 73.

Preston was born to the late Robert and Zephyr Williams on May 12, 1951, in Topeka, KS. He is survived by his wife Nadine, son Travis, and granddaughter Kiara of Lee’s Summit, MO, his sisters Sharon Steele (Joseph) Lewis of Ocala, FL, Dorsalene (Roosevelt) Boyd of Topeka, KS, and brother Dwight Williams of Fort Lauderdale, FL, a sister-in-law Arlene Olson of Beatrice, NE, and Uncle Lincoln Law of Los Angeles, CA. He also leaves behind nieces, nephews, and friends to mourn his death.

Preston grew up in Topeka and graduated from THS in 1969. He attended Butler Junior College and Washburn University, graduating with a degree in social work in 1974. He later attended KU to obtain his master’s degree in social work.

Preston began his social work career at Lansing Correctional Facility. He was later employed with the Kansas Children's Service League and ended his career with 30 years as a social worker at Topeka Public Schools.

During his professional career, he received numerous community awards for his participation with youths. He was particularly proud of receiving the Distinguished Support Staff Award from Topeka Public Schools in 1996, and the Dr. Martin Luther King Educators Award in 1998.

He was President of the KU Social Work Alumni Society in 1990 and served as the Board Chair at VALEO in 2008. In 2010, he was President of the Topeka Alliance of Black School Educators organization.

Preston was most proud of his time as a Council of Elders Board Member for the Topeka Rites of Passage Educational & Tutorial Program, from 1992 – 2002.

In his retirement, Preston and Nadine enjoyed traveling the country. He was an avid fan of his beloved LA Lakers and Kansas Jayhawks. He truly loved spending time with family and lifting weights at his favorite gym.

The family asks that you remember Preston in your own special ways.

A public viewing will be held from 3-5 on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at Penwell-Gabel.

Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, August 10, 2024, in the Garden Center Chapel at the Topeka Cemetery, 1601 SE 10th Ave #1, Topeka, KS 66607 prior to interment.

The family suggests memorial contributions in lieu of flowers to Preston's granddaughter, Kiara Williams, college fund. Please make checks payable to Kiara Williams c/o Penwell-Gabel Funeral Chapel - 1321 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66604 or Venmo @Travis-Williams-313.