Charlotte, NC - Jim Preston, an honored member of the Parker Poe family, passed away on March 21, 2016.  Jim was 78. The firm carried his name in the eighties as Parker, Poe, Thompson, Bernstein, Gage & Preston.

Mr. Preston was a leader in the firm as well as in the field of law; he served as a counselor and as President of the North Carolina State Bar. He was a member of the House of Delegates of the American Bar Association and on the Executive Committee of the National Conference of Bar Associations.

He was a dedicated Tar Heel, and his commitment to the state of North Carolina was honored by being named to the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the most prestigious award presented by the Governor of North Carolina. In 2009, he was recognized by the UNC School of Law with its Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Mr. Preston was a fierce advocate for the arts and a tireless community leader. He served on the boards of a number of organizations, including the Community School of the Arts (Chair), the Arts & Science Council (Chair), Charlotte Ballet (Vice Chair), The Greater Charlotte Cultural Trust (Chair), the Charlotte Opera, and the North Carolina Humanities Council. He was also a vigorous leader in his church.

A great friend to many, Jim Preston will be remembered as a man who was trusted to do right and a forceful voice of reason that brought his firm and community together.