Dorothy M. Preston

Dorothy M. (Loomis) Preston, 81, of McGraw, NY, passed away in the early morning hours of Thursday, September 20, 2012, at the Cortland Regional Medical Center, while surrounded by her family and was reunited with the love of her life and husband of 58 years, Howard Preston.

Dorothy was born in Cortland, NY on August 29, 1931, a daughter of the late Nellie and Ray Loomis.  She was a member of the Pitcher Federated Church.  A beloved mother of eight, Dorothy always made much with little, making sure that her children never went without.  For many years, Dorothy was employed as a health care aide and hospice caregiver.  She will always be known for taking care of others, regardless of her own needs.  Over the decades, her house was the second home to her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her faithful companions that always had a special place at the bottom of her bed; all of whom will miss her terribly.

She is survived by her children, Richard (Kelly) Preston of Homer, Michael (Marilyn) Preston of Dryden, Susan (Gary) Vleck of Cortland, Gary (Carole) Preston of McGraw, Deborah (Gordon) Valentine of Cortland, Larry (Barbara) Preston of Groton, Terry (Jacqueline) Preston of Solon, and Bradley (Tracy) Preston of McGraw.  She also leaves behind her 22 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Paul Loomis of Union Valley.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Howard Preston, on July 3, 2009; a sister, Fern Holl, and a brother, Floyd “Fink” Loomis.

Funeral services will be held at the K.L. Sharp Funeral Home, Cincinnatus, NY on Monday, September 24, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Suzanne Block officiating.  Burial will be in Taylor Rural Cemetery at the convenience of the family.  The family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  Expressions of sympathy in memory of Dorothy may be directed to Caring Community Hospice of Cortland, 11 Kennedy Parkway, Cortland, NY 13045.