Jack D. Preston, DDS

Dec. 26, 1933 – July 13, 2025

Dr. Jack D. Preston, a distinguished prosthodontist, educator and leader in the field of dentistry and beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home in Templeton, California, on July 13, 2025, with his beloved wife, Charlotte, at his side.

Born in Lovell on December 26, 1933, Jack was the son of James W. Preston and Viva Preston. 

Dr. Preston’s distinguished career began with his education in Lovell, where he excelled academically and earned a scholarship to the University of Wyoming. He went on to graduate from the College of Dentistry at the University of Southern California. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country with honor for 12 years and retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

His professional accomplishments were extensive and remarkable. Dr. Preston completed a residency in fixed prosthodontics at Fitzsimons General Hospital and then worked at the Los Angeles Veterans Administration Dental Service, where he established an Advanced Prosthodontic Residency Program. Dr. Preston was a distinguished member of more than 20 prosthodontic organizations. He was a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics and later served as an Examiner and President for the Board.

At the University of Southern California, Dr. Preston held the prestigious position of professor and chairman of the Department of Oral Maxillofacial Imaging. He was honored as The Don and Sybil Harrington Foundation Professor of Esthetic Dentistry with a Granted Chair at the USC College of Dentistry and retired as Professor Emeritus. Concurrently, he maintained his private practice in Brentwood, California, limited to prosthodontics.

Dr. Preston was an internationally recognized lecturer, author and educator, sharing his expertise and knowledge across 39 states and at least 22 countries on five continents, influencing generations of dental professionals worldwide. Dr. Preston was the original editor-in-chief of The International Journal of Prosthodontics, where he served for 10 years. He was the co-author, together with his friend Stephen Bergen, of the book “Color Science and Dental Art, A Self Teaching Program.”

Following his retirement from dentistry, Jack embraced life on the beautiful central coast of California. He found joy in viticulture and the craft of winemaking, producing award-winning Bordeaux wines in Templeton. He cherished the star-lit skies of his adopted home, the friendships he cultivated and the peaceful rhythm of his vineyard life.

Dr. Jack D. Preston’s legacy continues through his contributions to the field of dentistry, the countless professionals he mentored and the love he shared with his family and friends. He is truly missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother William E. Preston, DDS.

Jack is survived by his wife, Charlotte A. Preston; sons Richard and Christopher; stepchildren Matthew Todd Hatchard and Sheri Hatchard-Sandoval; granddaughters Kathleen and Alison; step-grandchildren Max Hatchard, Ian Hatchard, Trevor Hatchard, Blythe Hatchard, Breah Sandoval and Shane Sandoval; great-granddaughter Harper M. Hatchard; and great-grandson Koa Graham Hatchard.