Who was Preston Ross Jr. 

Preston T. Ross, Jr. was born in Chicago and grew up in the Roseland area.  He attended and graduated from Roseland Christian Elementary school, and John Marshall Harlan High school.  At Harlan he not only excelled academically, but enjoyed basketball and swimming.  He also attended Chicago State University.   

Preston was a son, dad, friend, officer, mentor, entrepreneur, and so much more.  He was a 25-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department where he received 17 awards of merit during his tenure.  He loved helping others, especially young people.  He embraced life and shared his time, energy, home, and finances with others.  He often acknowledged how blessed he was, and considered it his obligation to share his blessings with others, especially those he came into contact with that needed a helping hand.

Preston brought out the best in others; however, he did not hesitate to correct them if they were wrong.  After pointing out a wrong, he would then take the time to explain how the situation could have been handled better.

Preston loved mentoring young people, and treated everyone of them like family.  He played basketball with them, cut grass with them, took them to sports events, and recreation functions.  To quote one young mentee "Preston kept us off the streets and kept in contact with us so that we would not fall behind and lose sight of our dreams, friends, and family."

Preston did not say much, however, his actions reflected that he did much.  He had a fantastic sense of humor.  It is with a deep sense of honor and privilege that we honor his memory and continue his legacy as we endeavor to help others.