Preston James Hawthorne, 12, of Bentonia, Mississippi, went to be with Jesus on May 12, 2025.
Preston was born on July 16, 2012, in Flowood, Mississippi.
Preston is survived by his loving parents, Lisa and William Willcutt of Bentonia, MS and Matt and Mary Hawthorne of Brandon, MS; siblings, Annelise Hawthorne, Parker Hawthorne, Nathan Willcutt, and Rune Westerberg. He is also survived by grandparents who adored him, Bud and Dorothy Parker of Bentonia, MS and Tom and Rita Hawthorne of Madison,MS; an uncle, Ben(Allison) Hawthorne; cousins, Justin (Courtney) Hawthorne, Rawson Hawthorne, Brayden Hawthorne, Christian Hawthorne, and Noah Hawthorne. Preston also leaves behind a host of cousins, great aunts and great uncles, friends, and special aunts who all loved him.
Preston was a 7th grade student at Yazoo County Middle School, where he had friends and teachers who looked forward to seeing his bright smile and bright future ahead of him. He attended elementary school at Bentonia Gibbs. He loved to attend church at Central Baptist Church. Preston looked forward to joining the youth at the church anytime he could, especially on Wednesday nights. The family takes great comfort in knowing he loved the Lord and was a part of a loving church. Bro. Scotty was a true mentor and helped to build Preston’s relationship with the Lord.
Preston loved all things outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping with family. He especially loved his dirt bike and 4-wheeler. At such a young age, Preston was very mechanically inclined and would often take apart his dirt bike and 4-wheeler to work on it. Preston was a true country boy who loved to wear a cowboy hat and spend his time outside. Preston also loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them doing all things that were fun and exciting. He spent spring breaks and summers going to the beach and running from the waves, splashing in the creek, creating unique artwork, and waking up each morning with such energy that the world knew Preston was awake.
Fall and winter brought about two of Preston’s favorite holidays, Halloween and Christmas. Preston always had the best Halloween costume and loved to go to any trunk or treat or hayride that was going on. On Christmas, Preston was the first to rise in excitement.
Preston was the light of his parents' life. He will be forever remembered by family and friends for his infectious smile, funny stories, sweet hugs, bringing joy and laughter to those who were lucky enough to be around him, and his quick wit. Preston’s memory and charming personality will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him,near and far.
Services for Preston are Friday, May 16, 2025, at Central Baptist Church in Bentonia, MS. Visitation begins at 9:30am and ends at 11:00 am. The services will begin at 11:00 am. There will not be a graveside service. In lieu of flowers, if anyone would like to donate in his memory, please send donations to Central Baptist Church Youth or Building Fund.
