Ronan Hall of Fame: Jay and Beth Preston

Profiles of new inductees into the Ronan Hall of Fame continue with distinguished community contributors Jay and Beth Preston, who are among the inductees to be honored Feb. 1 at the Ronan Community Center.  

The couple married in Plains on Valentine’s Day, 1954. After a short stay in Seattle and Missoula, they purchased the Ronan Telephone Company in 1960.

Being a young couple in their 30s with three kids, they immediately became involved with various community activities, including civic organizations, and enjoyed giving their time and resources to the Ronan community.

Over the years, Beth was on the hospital board, a volunteer and board member of Family Crisis, a volunteer and fundraiser for the Bread Basket as well as an active member of Women’s Club. She also served as president of the Ronan Chamber of Commerce.

Dedication to civic projects was a constant in Jay’s life. He served on the Ronan School Board, was a member of the Lions Club, and president of the Chamber of Commerce. He also purchased, maintained and put up Christmas lights on Ronan’s Main Street, and along the “new” highway in later years.

Together, they raised funds for the construction of the Ronan Community Center and St. Luke’s Extended Care facility. Jay and Beth’s generosity and willingness to devote their time and resources to community betterment has made a lasting impact on the community of Ronan.

Jay passed away in 2019 and Beth now resides at St. Luke Extended Care. Their children, Jay Jr. and wife Cynthia, Judy, and Elizabeth have continued their parents’ support and dedication to community service.