Preston Lee Banta was born January 23, 1929 in Weleetka, Oklahoma to Alfred Franklin Banta and Beulah (Duncan) Banta and passed from this life at his home in Weleetka on June 9, 2017 at the age of 88 following an extended illness.

Preston was raised in Weleetka and attended Weleetka School. While a teen his father passed away and Preston left school to go to work and help support his family. He primarily worked with harvest crews throughout the Midwest. In February 1951 he entered the United States Army and honorably served his country during the Korean Conflict. He was transferred to the Army Reserve February 10, 1953.

In July 1956 he was married Ruby Saladin. They made Weleetka their lifelong home. She preceded him in death March 2 of this year. God granted his heart's desire that he not pass from this world before her and leave her alone. They had over sixty wonderful years together.

As a young man Preston worked for the City of Weleetka in town maintenance and at the ice plant. In 1960 he became employed by the Public Service Company of Oklahoma. He traveled across the state with a maintenance crew mostly rebuilding turbine engines. He was offered early retirement on October 31, in about 1985, which he accepted. He was blessed to be able to enjoy nearly all of his retirement years.

Preston was a longtime member of the First Free Will Baptist Church of Weleetka where he had served many years as a trustee.

In addition to his parents and wife Ruby he was also preceded in death by his siblings Alma Hill, Irene Durbin, Virgie Blankenship, Liz Ward, Elsie Vaughn, Alice Milum, Woodrow Banta, and Afton Banta.

Survivors include: Friends and caregivers Steve and Debbie Killmer, and Ralph and Francis Ayala; a special niece Goldie Sanders along with several other nieces and nephews; three young men he "adopted" as grandsons, Christopher and Michael Killmer and Casey Williamson; long time friend Nannette Oldfield; along with extended family members and many friends.

Graveside rites were held Monday, June 12, at 1:00 p.m. at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Weleetka with Rev. Dale Smith officiating. Interment followed under the direction of Williamson-Spradlin funeral Home of Weleetka and Wetumka.