Preston Varner Stevens, passed away on July 23, 2026, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, surrounded by his family after a lengthy illness. He was born in Childress, Texas, and lived his years with faith, dignity, and a steadfast commitment to serving others.

Preston was a Christian man whose life reflected the values he held dear. He believed in hard work, integrity, and the importance of walking faithfully with the Lord through every season of life. Those who knew him will remember his steady presence, his kind spirit, and the quiet strength with which he met both the ordinary and the difficult moments of life. He was a man who carried himself with humility and grace, and he left a lasting impression on all who were blessed to know him.

He proudly served his country and then received his Bachelor of Business Administration from West Texas State University in Canyon, Texas, and later earned his Juris Doctor degree from Texas Tech Law School. His education laid the foundation for a distinguished legal career and a lifetime of public service. Preston was admitted to the State Bar of Texas and served as County Attorney for Wheeler County, Texas. He later retired after 25 years of service as First Assistant District Attorney in Odessa, Texas, where he earned the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of the community he served so faithfully. His dedication to justice and public service was recognized when January 8, 2004, was proclaimed Preston Stevens’ Day in Odessa, Texas, a fitting tribute to a career marked by honor and perseverance.

After retirement, Preston and his wife moved to the mountains near Cloudcroft, New Mexico, where he found peace in the beauty of God’s creation and the slower rhythm of mountain life. He served as President of the Robin Hood Water Users’ Association and gave his time as Sunday School Director for Mayhill Baptist Church. His faith was not merely spoken but lived, and he served his church and community with a willing heart. He found joy in simple pleasures, including travel, fly fishing, reading, and watching westerns, and these interests brought him comfort and enjoyment throughout his life.

Preston cherished his family. His wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were a continuous source of happiness and the most special and treasured relationships in his life. He is survived by his wife, Valerie Stevens; his son, James Stevens; his daughter, Jennifer Spaulding and her husband, Brandon; his grandsons, Connor Stevens and his wife, Katy, Brex Stevens, and Ryan Spaulding; his granddaughter, Emily Markos and her husband, Alex; his sister, Nonie Cawthon; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. 

Preston’s life was a testimony to the truth of Proverbs 22:1, which says, “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.” Though his passing brings sorrow, those who love him take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of his Savior. His earthly journey has ended, but the legacy of his faith, devotion, and love will continue to bless his family and all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. May the Lord comfort all who mourn his passing and grant peace to those who loved him.

Preston was a 32° Scottish Rite Mason, the family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Scottish Rite for Children Hospital in Dallas, TX.

The funeral service for Preston Stevens will be held at 10:00 am Monday July 27, 2026 at Mayhill Baptist Church in Mayhill, New Mexico.  Burial will be at Childress Cemetery in Childress, Texas Tuesday the 28th at 10:00 am. 

The Stevens family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Scenic Chapel to direct the funeral services.