State Court Judge Bob Preston has announced his retirement effective Friday, December 23, 2022.
Judge Preston, 80, has served on the State Court bench since January 1, 2005. He was elected in 2004. He successfully won re-election in 2008, 2012, and 2016. In 2020, he ran unopposed — the only time in his career that he did not face opposition.
“I would like to thank the citizens of Coffee County for entrusting this position to me. During my time on the bench, I have done my very best to handle each case individually and treat those who came before me with dignity, respect, and fairness. I would also like to thank all the officers and staff of the court for their hard work and dedication during my time as State Court Judge. Without their support, the court would not have operated as smoothly and efficiently as it did. I have enjoyed serving the citizens of this community yet I also look forward to enjoying a much needed break,” stated Judge Preston.
“Judge Preston has served this community ably and admirably. State Court isn’t one of the county offices that finds itself in the spotlight. Yet it is one of the busiest and most important departments in our county. This county is better off because of the work he he has performed from the bench. He will be missed. We wish him the best as he begins this next chapter of his life,” said County Administrator Wesley Vickers.
“Judge Preston has led a remarkable legal career and a remarkable life in general. He has served his Lord, family, church and community in exemplary fashion. His wisdom and leadership have been an inspiration for all of us. His character and integrity are unmatched. We regret his retirement and absence from the bench on one hand and simultaneously have great joy for him reaching this milestone. Judge Preston is an irreplaceable community leader. He will be greatly missed in the legal community, the courthouse and on the bench. On behalf of the bench we wish our friend a long and fulfilling retirement,” said Judge Dewayne Gillis, Chief Superior Court Judge of the Waycross Judicial Circuit.
Judge Preston’s term still has two years remaining. Gov. Brian Kemp will appoint a successor to serve the remainder of his term. County officials do not expect Judge Preston’s retirement to disrupt the State Court calendar.