Preston Lee Cloud

Preston Lee Cloud, 83, passed away surrounded by his loved ones in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on October 28, 2026. He was born on February 23, 1943, in Kinta, Oklahoma, to Hubert Cloud and Annalee (Riley) Cloud.

Preston was a hardworking, successful businessman whose influence on Tulsa's nightlife began in the 1970s. After spending some time selling tires, he found his way into the bar business, where he built a name for himself as a respected and successful bar owner. His entrepreneurial spirit was so strong that he even wrote a book in the 1970s about how to own and operate bars, sharing the knowledge he gained through his own experiences. Preston learned many of life's lessons through what he liked to call the "school of hard knocks," and he turned those lessons into a successful career built on determination, hard work, and a knack for business.

Although Preston took great pride in his work, his love and passion for horses was just as important to him. He enjoyed raising horses and spending his free time around them, finding happiness in a passion that stayed with him throughout his life. Preston was also good for times at the lake when he would drive as fast as he could on the boat to throw his sons off the inner tube. He often accompanied his accomplishment with a mischievous laugh.

Beyond his business accomplishments, Preston will be remembered for his generous heart, his friendships, and his willingness to help others. He had a special connection to the community of Sallisaw, where he became a board member of Blue Ribbon Fellowship Church and gave his time and support to those around him. He touched many lives through his kindness, and his circle of friends reflected the genuine relationships he built throughout the years. To those who knew him best, Preston was more than a successful businessman; he was someone with a big heart who could always be counted on to lend a helping hand.

Preston was known for his quick wit, playful sense of humor, and love of a good practical joke. He enjoyed making people laugh and was always willing to laugh at himself when the joke was on him. That sense of humor was especially evident in his relationship with his sons. His son, Marcus, fondly remembers Preston's familiar words: "If it weren't for me, you'd be living under a bridge somewhere." His sons would jokingly fire back, "Yes, I have a nice one picked out." Their back-and-forth was a reflection of the bond they shared, built on laughter, playful banter, and a mutual understanding that, while there was always room for a joke, there was also a time to straighten up and listen. Those moments captured Preston's personality perfectly: a father who could make his family laugh, keep them on their toes, and make memories they would carry with them for a lifetime.

Preston was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Annalee Cloud, and his son, Jerry Cloud.

Those left to cherish his memory include his son, Marcus Cloud, and wife, Stacie; his brothers, Billy Cloud and his wife, Patsy, and Tommy Cloud and his wife, Janie; and his sister, Freda Mosher, and her husband, John. He is also survived by eight grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and many dear friends and loved ones whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Preston leaves behind a legacy of hard work, entrepreneurship, generosity, friendship, and laughter. From the businesses he built to the horses he raised, the community he served, and the family he loved, his life was one of determination and character. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial service honoring Preston's life will be on Monday November 9, 2026 at 1PM at Schaudt Funeral Service, 5757 S. Memorial Dr. Tulsa, Oklahoma 74145.