Alverta Preston, 84

Alverta E. Preston, age 84, of Constantine, passed away Thursday, September 8, 2016 at Bowman Place, Three Rivers.  She was born in Sherman Township on July 18, 1932, a daughter of Fletcher and Anna (Dennis) Mercer.  Alverta graduated from Constantine High School in 1950.  On July 28, 1950, she married Roy A. Preston at the Constantine Lutheran Church.  He preceded her in death on October 6, 1998.  Alverta was a secretary at Constantine Middle School for 20+ years.  She also volunteered at Constantine High School Athletic Events and Three Rivers Hospital.  Alverta enjoyed going to casinos and playing bingo every Tuesday night at the Constantine American Legion.

She is survived by five sons, David (Michelle) Preston of White Pigeon, Larry (Cindy) Preston of Three Rivers, Bruce (Sandy) Preston of Jones, Frank Preston of Bismark, AR, and Paul (Holly) Preston of Chelsea, AL; 14 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and her special dog Jenny.  Preceding Alverta in death were her parents, husband, brothers Edgar “Sam” Mercer and Jess Williard Mercer, sisters Irene, Eula, Mary Altona, Vernetha, and Geneva; and grandsons Darin and Joshua.

Relatives and friends will be received Sunday, September 11 from 2-4 and 6-8pm at Eley Funeral Home, Constantine, where religious services will be held Monday, September 12 at 11am with Pastor Karleen Kinker officiating. Interment will be in the Constantine Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to West Michigan Cancer Center or to the Alzheimer’s Association (Michigan Great Lakes Chapter).  Online messages may be left for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.