Paul "Pete" Preece, age 79, passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at his residence in Columbus, OH. Pete was born August 30, 1946 in Martin County, KY to the late Abraham and Mirtie Preece. Pete attended Little Angel Church in Groveport, OH for many years. He was a devoted OSU Buckeyes and Cincinnati Reds fan. He also enjoyed fishing and spending quality time with his favorite grandson. Pete is preceded in death by his parents, Abraham and Mirtie Preece; wife of 30 years, Imojean Preece; siblings, Bobby, Randall, Patsy, and David "Crock" Preece; brothers-in-law, Buddy Moore and Dwight Sammons; sister-in-law, Doris Preece. He is survived by his daughter, Paula (Eric) Newsome; grandson, Evan (Ashante) Newsome; siblings, Don (Gay) Preece, Mary Sammons, Kay Moore, and Betty (Dwight) Bowers; special nieces, Sheila (Kevin) Frey and Bobbie (Marvin) Wallace; special canine companion, Ellie; numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends. Visitation for Pete will be Monday, February 2, 2026, from 10 a.m. until time of funeral service at 12 noon at the O.R. WOODYARD CO. South Chapel, 1346 S. High St. in Columbus. Moderator Danny Carty will officiate. Interment will follow at Obetz Cemetery, Obetz, OH.