05 January 2026

---

A Tribute to Jack Preston DDS ’57 Professor Emeritus

---

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

Born in Lovell, Wyoming, in 1933, Jack was the son of James W. Preston and Viva Preston. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, William E. Preston, DDS.

Dr. Preston’s distinguished career began with his education in Lovell, Wyoming, 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 over 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.

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.

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

Authors: Charlotte Preston and Family

Source: https://dentistry.usc.edu/