With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jon Paul Preston Jr., who left us on May 4, 2026, at his family home in Glen Burnie, Maryland. Born on October 4, 1956, at the Fort Meade army base, Jon was the beloved son of Margaret Knox Preston and Jon Paul Preston Sr. He was 69 years old and spent his final moments with his best buddy Wiggles by his side, his loyal pup who brought him joy and companionship.

Jon was a man who embraced life with a fervor that was infectious to those around him. You couldn't help but laugh when you were around him. He was predeceased by his beloved partner, Karen "KC" Collins, with whom he shared a decade of love and happiness. Their companionship was one of joy and shared experiences.

Jon loved his family. He is survived by his daughter, the center of his world, Jade Preston Tartamella, and her husband Ryan Tartamella, who blessed him with two cherished grandchildren, Caleb and Laney Tartamella. He loved their annual Bethany Beach trips! It was the highlight of the year for everyone. Flying kites with Caleb, teaching Laney to ride a bike, mangoritas, and new hoodies. He also enjoyed watching all of Caleb's baseball games and Laney's dance recitals, once we got him set up on the live stream. He really thought that was something else!

He also leaves behind his devoted sisters, Jan Preston Clark and her husband Rich Clark, and Barbra Preston Larkin and her husband Beau Larkin. His legacy continues through his nieces and nephews: Todd Crocken and wife Dori Boone, Jessica Conover and husband Marshall Conover, Jobeth Callaghan and husband Kevin Callaghan, Alex Larkin and wife Katie Larkin, and Julia Larkin, along with his great-nieces and nephew, Reagan, Merida, and Liam Callaghan. Jon ran most of his races with Barbra and his nieces, it was a newfound hobby. He never missed a shower, wedding, birthday party, or family dinner. He was devoted to his whole family and loved spending time with all of them.

Jon was a proud graduate of Glen Burnie High School, class of 1974. His career was marked by significant contributions at Hechinger, where he worked for almost 15 years, and most recently at the Port of Baltimore. His work allowed him the freedom to walk or drive around outside, listen to his favorite tunes with the windows down, and enjoy the beauty of the day.

Music was the soundtrack of Jon's life. His home resonated with the sounds of Steely Dan, Moody Blues, Genesis, and countless 70s classics. Weekends were reserved for the thrill of Formula One races and the camaraderie of watching the O's and Ravens at Frank's Den, Ramono's, or at home in his recliner, unless, of course, the game started past his bedtime. In the last few years Jon had also discovered running. He ran the Baltimore half marathon, countless 5K's, and was signed up for his second Bay Bridge 10K. He didn't want to go gently; he was determined to live life to the fullest!

Jon was known for his quick wit and sarcastic comebacks, qualities that endeared him to friends and family alike. He had a unique ability to lighten up any room, often with a playful jibe that left everyone smiling. His presence was a beacon of humor, warmth, and joy, and his absence will be deeply felt.

A celebration of Jon's life will take place on June 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Romano's Glen Burnie, located at 6905 Ritchie Hwy, Glen Burnie, MD 21061. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Habitat for Humanity ReStore, one of Jon's favorite places to shop.   https://habitatmm.org/donate/donate.html

Jon Paul Preston Jr. lived a life full of love, laughter, music, and family. He got a No Fear t-shirt in the 90's that read "If you're not living on the edge, you're taking up too much space". And that was truly his mantra from that day on. He said it often and lived it daily. His legacy is one of joy, humor, and the countless memories he created with those he loved. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.