Hilda C. Preston

Hilda C. Preston, 92, formerly of Church Street, passed away Monday, January 14, 2008 at the Edward L. Wilkinson R.H.C F. Born on March 6, 1915 in Amsterdam, she was the daughter of the late Hilda Firth and Arthur DeGraff. After her parent's untimely death's, she was raised by her Aunt, Bertha Firth, whom she loved as her mom. Mrs. Preston was a member of the first graduating class of Wilbur H. Lynch High School in 1932. She was employed as a clerk for Kresgies department store and later Woolworths. Mrs. Preston was a member of the United Presbyterian Church and the St. Mary's Seniors. She loved her family dearly, and will be missed by all who knew her. Her family includes her children, Diane Steven Juliano of Fairfield, CA and Robert Preston Carolyn Ryan of Amsterdam; one grandson, Ryan Juliano; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her brother, Gilbert DeGraff in 2006 and her husband Robert Bellinger Preston in 1978. Funeral services will be conducted on Thursday, January 17, 2008 at 1p.m. at the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home. Interment will take place in Fairview Cemetery. Calling hours will be held Wednesday evening Today from 4 until 7 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to G.A.V.A.C. or to Community Hospice in care of the funeral home office.