Preston-Schilling Funeral Home

Preston-Schilling Funeral Home, Ltd. is a cornerstone of the Dixon, Illinois community, providing compassionate, professional funeral and cremation services for over a century. Located at 213 Crawford Avenue, this family-owned funeral home has earned a stellar 5-star rating on Google Maps and consistent praise from families for its caring staff, attention to detail, and ability to ease the burden during times of loss. The funeral home is accessible with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking, ensuring all families can receive its services with dignity.

The rich history of Preston-Schilling began in 1904 when Herbert Morris opened Morris Funeral Home at 123 E. First Street in Dixon. In 1911, Walter Preston joined as a partner, creating Morris-Preston Funeral Home and Ambulance Service. Walter Preston became sole owner in 1916, renaming it Preston Funeral Home, and relocated the business to its current Crawford Avenue location in 1937. Walter’s son, Robert “Bob” Preston, joined the family business that same year and eventually became President after his father’s retirement. In 1975, Richard Schilling, a funeral director who had been with the home since 1968, purchased the business, transforming it into Preston-Schilling Funeral Home, Ltd. Richard served the community for over 40 years. In 2016, Jesse Partington, a veteran funeral director who had worked at the home for 18 years, bought the funeral home. Jesse is also the Lee County Coroner, bringing additional expertise and a deep commitment to the Dixon area. This rich lineage of family stewardship ensures that each family receives personalized care rooted in tradition.

Preston-Schilling offers a comprehensive range of services to honor a loved one’s unique life. These include traditional funeral services, cremation services, and veterans’ services. The funeral home also operates as a monument maker, providing markers and memorials. The staff is available 24 hours on weekends and maintains regular weekday hours from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, offering flexibility during sensitive times. Families consistently commend the staff’s professionalism, listening skills, and ability to accommodate specific requests—whether it’s coordinating with out-of-town relatives or supporting a celebration of life event. The facility’s chapel and on-site parking add convenience.

Beyond its core services, Preston-Schilling Funeral Home is a trusted community leader. Jesse Partington’s role as Coroner and the staff’s long tenure (some have served families for decades) reflect a dedication that goes beyond business. The funeral home’s website (www.prestonschilling.com) offers obituaries, service scheduling, and a sympathy store, making arrangements easier for families near and far. Positive testimonials highlight the team’s ability to make a difficult process seamless, with many families returning for multiple generations of service. Preston-Schilling Funeral Home, Ltd. continues to honor its legacy while adapting to modern needs, ensuring each memorial is a fitting tribute.