Michael Lee Preston
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      Michael Lee Preston

      August 28, 2026

      Michael Lee Preston, 68, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 28, 2026. Originally from New York, Mike had made a home in the Outer Banks of North Carolina for close to 30 years. He was predeceased by his parents and stepparents, Norma and Pete Merrick, and Nile and Marie Preston.

      Mike was very skilled with his hands and could fix almost anything. His joy was home repair and the happiness of making broken things useful again. His years of hard work reflected the type of man he was, someone who valued doing things the right way and taking care of the people and places around him.

      He loved taking his tiny Yorkshire Terrier "Bebe" to the post office, pharmacy, the bank, Handy Hugo’s and other local places to collect her bones and treats!

      His passions were his beloved dog and companion, Bebe, Watching a great NASCAR Race, his pickup trucks and spending time with friends. Mike will be remembered for his straightforward and easy-going nature, hardworking spirit and willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need.

      Michael Preston is survived by his children, Sarah Ackley (Ron), Adam Preston (Angela); his grandchildren, Paige Ackley, Nathan Ackley, Jacob Preston, Logan Preston and Marlea Preston; his great-grandson, Stetson Ackley; siblings, Dirk (Linda) Preston (Linda), Susan Goodwin (Marv), Nancy Preston (Tom Thorn), and Wendy Bean (Mike), and several nieces, nephews and great nieces and great nephews. Mike also leaves behind his closest friend, Michele Dyer.

      Mike's celebration of life will be held 4pm, Saturday, Sept 19, 2026 at 288 N. Dogwood Trail, Southern Shores, NC. Please share a message of comfort with the family at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.

        OUR HISTORY

        The Nags Head Chapel and Company Headquarters

        Nags Head Chapel

        Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was founded in Nags Head, NC in 2006 by licensed North Carolina Funeral Director Courtney N. Gallop. This independent, minority and woman-owned start-up funeral home challenged the existing monopoly firm which had sole control of all funeral care, goods, and services provided in Manteo, the Outer Banks, and Currituck County for nearly 100 years.

        Finally - someone brought competition into the local funeral industry. As a direct result of Gallop Funeral Services, Inc., local families now have choices, options, alternatives, fairer pricing, flexibility, and a higher level of service in funeral care for their loved ones.

        The Barco Memorial Chapel - Currituck

        Barco Chapel

        In 2016, Gallop Memorial Chapel was opened in Barco, NC. The spacious, newly remodeled facility is the first and only funeral service-related business ever to locate in Currituck County. The Barco Gallop Memorial Chapel is conveniently located near the Outer Banks, Moyock and Elizabeth City. The elegant yet relaxing chapel interior is welcoming and comfortable for viewings, family gatherings, funerals, and memorial services. Our Barco chapel is perfectly equipped to serve all faiths and families in the county.

        Courtney Gallop and the staff at Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. are committed to excellence. We continue to improve, grow, invest, and learn in order to provide the highest level of service for all families entrusted to our care.

        Capital Crematory

        Capital Crematory

        In 2011, we built and established Capital Crematory, the first and only crematory ever in Dare County. The crematory supports Gallop Funeral Services and also provides professional cremation services for other funeral homes in the Albemarle area. Having our own local crematory means your loved one's cremation will be handled personally by owners of the funeral home, 100% locally, quickly, and at the best pricing.

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