WHEREAS, On Monday, August 25, 2014, the Almighty God, in His infinite wisdom called Rhenette Analeda Matthews Preston to her eternal journey; and
WHEREAS, The Chicago City Council has been informed of her passing by the Honorable Lona Lane, Alderman of the 18th Ward; and
WHEREAS, Rhenette Analeda was born in Chicago, Illinois on August 23, 1946. She was the second of three children born to Fred L. and Armentha Mathews; and
WHEREAS, Rhenette received her formal education from St. Edmunds, Harlan High School, and Wilson Jr. College in Chicago, IL. She earned a Bachelors degree from Yankton College in South Dakota. She also took courses at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, where she became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She later earned Master's Degrees from Governors State University and Roosevelt University; and
WHEREAS, Rhenette accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at New Mount Olive Baptist Church under the leadership of Revered James a Mason. Later, the Lord led her to Third Baptist Church of Chicago where the Reverend Elmer L. Fowler was pastor. She continued to serve faithfully in several auxiliaries Ministries; and
WHEREAS, She married Bennie Preston on August 21, 1982. From this union, one daughter was born, Krystal. Rhenette loved encouraging young adults, giving advice and mentoring. This led her to a career in education. She started her teaching career at St. Edmunds Episcopal School followed by several Chicago Public Schools including Bowen, Ryder, Lane Tech, Lindblom, McCormick and Orozco Elementary where she retired in 2009. After retirement, Rhenette enjoyed traveling. She was also actively involved in her community; and ,
WHEREAS, Rhenette was preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Frederick Matthews; and leaves behind to cherish her precious memories her devoted husband, Bennie; one daughter, Krystal; one sister, Patricia (James) Robinson; mother in law, Elsie Davis; father-in-law, Bennie Preston Sr.; brother-in-law, John Preston; sister-in-law, Joanne Mathews; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, god children and friends; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and members of the City Council of the City of Chicago, gathered here in assembly this tenth day of September 2014 A.D., do hereby express our sorrow on the passing of Rhenette Analeda and extend to her family and friends our deepest sympathy; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be prepared and presented to the family of Rhenette Analeda Matthews Preston.
Lona Lane
Alderman, 18th Ward