John Preston Briley

John Preston Briley was born in Dallas, Texas on October 11, 2000 and passed away unexpectedly on April 27, 2021 in Abilene, Texas.  A loss far too soon.

Preston ruled as the first child and grandchild. He grew up in Dallas and attended Highland Park schools and Woodrow Wilson High School. 

He loved gaming, traveling, snowboarding, and watching sports with family and friends.  As a faithful A&M fan, he passionately supported his Texas Aggies in every sport, especially the football and basketball teams. He found joy in the culinary arts and had plans and visions of conquering culinary school.

Preston had a serious mind, a playful spirit, and a most adventurous soul. He loved to laugh and be a jokester. He used his keen intelligence and shining smile to win hearts and minds. 

Most importantly, Preston gave his life to the Lord at age 9, and then rededicated his life recently at age 19.

He will be remembered by his friends as a shining light who always put a smile on their faces "as one of the good ones."

We will forever miss and honor our precious, beloved Preston.

Surviving Family Members

Mother Natalie Hatchett, stepfather Josh Renken, and sister Henrietta Jane Renken of Dallas

Father John Parker Briley, stepmother Sara Lewis Briley, and baby sister Olivia Lou Briley of Dallas

Grandparents: Robert O. Briley and Lou Neely Briley of Abilene

Rhonda Foster Hatchett of Abilene and Bill Hatchett of Abilene

Uncles Zach Briley of Abilene and Travis Hatchett of Fort Lauderdale

Aunt Heather Longbine, her husband David Longbine, as well as cousins Isaac and Nyah of Melissa. 

Great Grandparents: Eloise Briley Cheney of Abilene and Jim Hatchett of Baird

Preston was blessed with numerous cousins, family members, and countless friends.

Preston’s service will be held on Monday May 3 at 2 pm, at Irving Bible Church, 2435 Kinwest Parkway, Irving, Texas 75063. A private burial will take place at Restland Memorial Park on Monday May 3rd at 4pm.  Services are under the direction of The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road.

If you wish to make a donation in Preston’s memory, his parents offer these suggestions:

Parker - Narrow Gate Foundation, www.narrowgate.org;

Natalie - Grant Halliburton Foundation, www.granthalliburton.org;

NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness, www.nami.org.