The death of Preston Jones, a promising 21-year-old student from Florida State University (FSU), has left both his hometown of Tampa, Florida, and the FSU community in mourning. The accident, which occurred over the weekend in Dixon, Illinois, took the life of the talented singer, guitarist, and bassist, whose passion for music touched the lives of many.
Preston was best known for his recent EP, Love Letters, a personal collection of songs that showcased his profound connection to music. As a member of two bands, “Hit the Shark” and “The Easy Button,” Preston was widely admired for his versatility as a musician. He played guitar and bass and was known for his vocals, performing at various events and venues both in Florida and beyond.
Born and raised in Tampa, Preston’s musical journey began at a young age. He honed his skills at Erwin Technical College in Hillsborough County, where he built a reputation for his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. Friends and teachers from Erwin remember him as a diligent student who was constantly striving for excellence, both academically and musically.
However, his artistic endeavors extended beyond just music. Preston had a vibrant presence on Instagram, where he shared personal moments and his creative work with his followers under the username “superdrjones.” His online presence helped him connect with fellow musicians and fans, who admired his authenticity and the raw emotion he infused into his music.
At Florida State University, Preston was majoring in music, pursuing a dream that had consumed him since childhood. He was involved in the campus music scene, regularly collaborating with fellow students and joining jam sessions. He had plans to expand his musical career after graduation, with hopes of eventually touring with his bands and growing his audience. His professors and peers speak of a talented, determined young man with a bright future ahead.
The accident that claimed Preston’s life occurred on a highway outside of Dixon, Illinois. According to initial reports, he was traveling for a personal engagement when the crash happened. The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation, but police have confirmed that Preston was the only person in the vehicle at the time of the crash. Emergency responders arrived quickly on the scene, but despite their efforts, Preston was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to a nearby hospital.
The news of Preston’s death has devastated his family, friends, and the communities he was a part of. His girlfriend, Emily Olson, with whom he shared a deep bond, is among those grieving the loss. The couple had been dating for over a year, and Emily was one of his biggest supporters, attending his performances and helping him navigate the early stages of his music career. Friends describe their relationship as one filled with love and mutual respect, noting how Emily brought out the best in him, both as a person and as a musician.
In addition to his girlfriend, Preston is survived by his parents and two younger siblings, who are grappling with the sudden and tragic loss. His family has requested privacy during this difficult time, but they have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from friends, fans, and fellow musicians. Several close friends have shared their memories of Preston on social media, highlighting his kindness, generosity, and undeniable talent.
One of Preston’s closest friends, bandmate Ethan Harris, posted a heartfelt tribute, saying, “There was no one like Preston. He had this incredible energy—whether we were playing music or just hanging out, he made everything better. I’m going to miss our jam sessions, our conversations about life, and his laugh. He was a true artist and an even better friend.”
The news of Preston’s passing has also resonated within the broader music community in Tallahassee and Tampa. Several local venues where Preston performed have announced plans to hold tribute concerts in his honor. These events will not only celebrate his life but will also raise funds for his family to cover funeral expenses and support ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting young, aspiring musicians like Preston.
In addition to the tribute concerts, Florida State University is planning a memorial service on campus, where students and faculty can come together to remember the impact Preston had on those around him. The university’s counseling services have also been made available to help students cope with the grief and shock of losing a beloved classmate.
Preston’s music, particularly his EP Love Letters, will undoubtedly live on as a testament to his talent and passion. Fans of his work have been streaming the EP on various platforms, with some leaving comments of remembrance and admiration. “Your music touched my soul, Preston. You were taken way too soon,” one fan wrote on a music-sharing site.
As news of Preston’s death continues to spread, it’s clear that his loss will be felt far and wide. His family has announced that Jones Funeral Home in Tampa will be handling the arrangements for his memorial service, which will be open to the public. His parents have also expressed their intent to create a scholarship in his name to support aspiring musicians at Florida State University, ensuring that Preston’s legacy lives on through the next generation of artists.
For now, the music world has lost a promising young artist whose potential was cut tragically short. Those who knew him will remember Preston Jones not only for his immense talent but for his kind heart, infectious smile, and unwavering love for the art that defined his life. His voice may be gone, but his music will continue to echo, carrying with it the memory of a young man who lived fully, loved deeply, and left an indelible mark on the lives he touched.
