Preston Lee Joy, age 56, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away suddenly but peacefully on Friday, July 11, 2025, at 1:31 p.m. at the Center for Hospice Care in Elkhart, with loved ones nearby and music in his heart—a fitting farewell for a man whose life was defined by creativity and quiet strength.

Born on October 25, 1968, in the open plains of Sterling, Colorado, Preston was the beloved son of the late Sidney L. "Lee" and Diana J. (Robinson) Joy. His early years were filled with guitars, gravel roads, and an unshakable belief that music could fix just about anything.

Preston is survived by his loving significant other and best friend, Kimberly Tarantino, of Elkhart.

He is also survived by his two children, who were the absolute pride and joy of his life: Seth L. (Meridith) Joy and Sarah D. (Payton) Fish, both of Elkhart. He also leaves behind his cherished grandson, Jonah Fish, whom he adored beyond measure—and who already shows signs of inheriting Grandpa's cleverness and rhythm.

Also carrying on Preston's memory are his older brothers Barry Joy and Harvey "Bill" Joy, both of Neodesha, Kansas, and a warm and wonderful network of extended family and longtime friends.

Though Preston wore many hats throughout his working life, he always found himself returning to the earth—literally—as a landscape artist and lawn care professional. Whether it was turning raw untamed land into a luscious green lawn, or creating beautiful backyard scenery, his expert knowledge and keen eye crafted peaceful sanctuaries for many.

But if landscaping paid the bills, music fed Preston's soul. An exceptionally gifted and self-taught multi-instrumentalist, Preston could coax melodies from just about anything that had strings, keys, or valves. He played classical, jazz, rock and roll, blues—you name it—and earned the title of All-State Jazz Guitarist during his high school years. At home, he loved recording his children singing, often composing original musical scores to accompany their voices and layering them together in a way that felt like magic. That was Preston—always finding harmony where others found silence.

He shared his musical gifts freely, especially as part of the praise and worship team at River Valley Church in Mishawaka, where his guitar and voice became a steady and uplifting presence to the congregation. His faith was real, lived out not in grand declarations, but in quiet compassion, patient wisdom, and joyful humility.

Preston also proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he served as Airman First Class until he was honorably discharged. He was a fierce patriot who believed deeply in the principles of liberty and responsibility. He instilled those same values in his children through weekend target practice sessions, peppered with lessons in both firearm safety and unwavering respect for the rights that come with being an American.

And then there were his other passions—his love of classic cars, for instance. Preston didn't just drive them; he revived them, most notably his prized, painstakingly restored 1965 Chevrolet Malibu SS Convertible (in evening orchid) which turned more heads than most people ever will.

Let's not forget his famous homemade chip salsa, which had just the right amount of heat and secret ingredients he refused to share (even though it's pretty clear he just made it up as he went along).

Preston had a rare and beautiful soul—strong, fiercely dedicated, and quietly wise. He never needed to be the loudest in the room. Instead, he let his actions, his music, and his sense of humor do the talking. He could light up a space without saying a word, and his presence will be missed in more ways than words can describe.

A memorial service celebrating Preston's life will take place at Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Elkhart on Friday, August 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with a memorial visitation beginning one hour prior at 10:00 a.m. Officiating will be Drew Richey, a dear family friend of Preston's daughter.

Cremation has already taken place, in accordance with Preston's wishes.

In the end, Preston Lee Joy lived his name well—he brought joy to those lucky enough to know him. His melody now lingers in the hearts of those he loved, and the world is softer and sweeter because he was here.