Obituary of Alan Jonathan Preston

At the age of almost 97, Alan died very early Monday morning suddenly and peacefully after a very brief illness. On Sunday, he had gone to church and read the lesson but didn't stand for the hymns as reported by Sue, and then he shopped because he cut the lawn on Saturday: the farm was ready. Beloved Husband of Mary DesBrisay (nee Way), father of Kathy (Peter Scanlon), Peggy (David Gauci), Amy (Ted O'Grady) and Norman (Anne Warnock). Grandfather of Alex and Caitlin, Ben, Katie and Nick, Rosie and Charlie, Mairi and Devlin. Great grandfather to Julius and Emmanuel. Survived by his brother Charlie (Mary). Dear son of the late Hazel (nee Melvin) and Alexander Preston, and predeceased by his siblings Melvin (Helen), Eric (Wavey), Ralph, and Winnifred (Walter Scott).

Lord of Glencoe, prominent member of the community, well credentialled, and doer of tasks. Alan admitted to these career accomplishments: a professorship in psychiatry at the University of Toronto with attachments at the Toronto Western Hospital, the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, and at the Great War Memorial Hospital in Perth. As a department head, he achieved his goals in evolving the structure and stature of psychiatric delivery in Canada. He used clarity as professor and teacher so that he was fondly remembered by his students. He brought his faith and commitment as a lifelong Anglican to his activity in many roles at all of his churches. His generosity and fellowship to friends, family, the USLA, the church, and the community is felt by so many.

Friends are invited to join the family in celebrating Alan’s life at St. James the Apostle Anglican Church, 12 Harvey St. Perth on Monday, August 17th, 2026 at 10:30am. A reception with light refreshments will be served in the church hall following the ceremony. Arrangements are in the care of Blair & Son Funeral Home, Perth.