Obituary of Judith Ann Preston

Judith Ann Preston, also affectionately called Momma, Meadowlark, Gram, Mimi and Duvay, was born on Tuesday, March 23, 1943 to the late Gilbert James and Katherine Marie Preston in Elizabeth, N.J.

Judith was the second oldest of four siblings (Gil Jr., Lacy & Kathleen) and was reared in a Christian home.  She accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Lord & Savior at a young age.  She began her Christian journey at First Baptist Church, Vaux Hall, NJ where she sang in the choir.  She continued her spiritual growth at Faith Fellowship Ministries W.O. C. in Edison, NJ and other worship centers in the Newark, NJ area.

Judith attended the Union, NJ school system. She later met and married the late Joel Gwathney. Her most recent employer was Costco and she had many seasonal jobs during the rearing of her children.

Judith enjoyed singing and at the age of 20 founded a singing group called “The Little Gospels” of Vaux Hall & Newark. This group included Patricia Alston, Donna Gray, Kathleen Preston and the late Billy Scott.

Judith also enjoyed karaoke, dancing, having lunch and shopping at Macy’s in New York. She was well traveled having visited Florida, Bahamas, Virgin Islands, Jamaica and experienced many multi-destination cruises. She frequently went on bus trips with her senior center and sang in the choir with friends at 2 Nevada Street. At one point she was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Judith had a natural sense of humor. She was so much fun to have around for any occasion. She was a great cook and enjoyed getting together with friends and family.  She will truly be missed by so many.

Judith was preceded in death by her Parents; Gilbert & Katherine Preston, Daughter – Jill McNeil, Brother – Lacy Preston, Brother-in-law – Dr. Arthur Tyehimba, M.D., Sisters-in-laws: Ertie Preston, Alberta Preston, and God-daughter – Judith Ann Gwathney.

Judith made the transition from humanity to dividnity on Friday evening December 11, 2020 at John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Edison, NJ. She leaves a legacy of strength, wisdom and love.

Left to cherish Judith’s memory are her four children: Kim Ways (MD) Loronzo, Todd Gwathney (MD) Tawanda, Beth Gwathney (NJ) Taywan and Brent Thorpe (DC); two siblings: Gilbert Preston (MI) Mary, Kathleen Preston Tyehimba (PA); nine grandchildren: Kyle (DC) Gladys, Caleb (VA) Elizabeth, Todd Jr (NJ), Kyana (MD) Donny, Brittany (MD), Breean, Makayla, Eliana and Ari and eight great-grand children: Jeremiah, Kayla, Donavan, Noah, Hailey, Kaden, Timiyah and Callie. As well as a host of loved relatives and friends.