Ellie Preston Reed

It is with deep sorrow to announce Ellie Preston Reed passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family September 22, 2026 after a 6 ½ year battle with lung cancer. She was 93. Ellie fought bravely, always with a smile on her face, no matter what came her way. She was born in Brooklyn, NY and came to California as a teenager with her family.

Ellie is survived by her children Craig Preston, Bruce Preston (Steve Resnick), Arlene Aberbuch (Bill), and Ken Preston (Naomi), also her grandchildren Eric Preston Resnick, Ethan Aberbuch, Maya Preston, and Shana Preston.

Ellie was an amazing mother. Even the local community, friends and extended family considered her their adopted Mom. She had a wonderful way of making everyone she met and knew feel important, heard and loved. She gave unconditional love, support and friendship to her children, grandchildren, family and friends. Ellie consistently put others' needs before her own, even at the end of her life when she was very ill. She demonstrated resilience throughout her life, despite multiple emotional and physical hardships.

Ellie trained and worked early on as a dental assistant. She later worked as an office manager for her husband, Dr. Howard Preston's optometry practice, as well as at a pediatrician’s office for decades. She also provided endless amounts of volunteer work for her synagogue, Temple Menorah of Redondo Beach, ORT (Organization for Rehabilitation through Training) America and other charitable causes. In addition to the numerous hours of volunteer work, Ellie was also very philanthropic. Her many wonderful qualities and awards she received, exemplified the true definition of a “Woman of Valor” (Ayshet Chayil). Ellie was admired, respected and loved by her community.

Ellie was tragically widowed three times. Despite this hardship, Ellie was extremely fortunate to have three true loves: Dr. Howard Preston, Earl Reed and Sanford Kaufman.

Funeral service was held at Hillside Memorial Park in Los Angeles Friday, September 25, 2026. For those who would like to view the funeral you may do so via this recorded link:

Livestream Link For Ellie Reed

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you to please make donations to either Temple Menorah, Redondo Beach CA (templemenorah.org), ORT America (ortamerica.org) or Hadassah (hadassah.org).